Women Who Went for It! Podcast

In this short audio segment, Sara announces that she's stepping back from the podcast for the time being to care for her spinal and ergonomic health. In the wake of the murders of Breonna Taylor, George Floyd, and Ahmaud Arbery, she re-shares some listener favorites from her interviews with black women, and she gives gives some suggestions on where to find podcasts from people of color, as well as podcasts that confront racism in America. And lastly, she asks for listener support in finding specific kinds of new guests for the show when she's back on the air.   Sara discusses: Taking time to heal from the things she mentioned on the last Sara Solo Show about signs & synchronicities Some listener favorites from her interviews with black women: Chef Tanorria Askew of MasterChef Fame Interior Designer Courtney McLeod Environmental Educator Sanaa Green Makeup & Skincare Entrepreneur Adora Drake Finding podcasts from people of color via Podcasts in Color Listening to podcasts that confront racism in America Career Mentor Toni Patterson Call for guest nominations to pull from when she's back on the air Full guest criteria and nomination form on her website (no nominations accepted by email) Connect with Sara and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit  Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com  Nominate a Podcast Guest: www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Email: sara.mcardle.coaching@gmail.com  Phone: 503.893.2043   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart. 

In this Sara Solo Show, Sara talks about a big sign she recently received about life changes she needs to make and shares intriguing stories of other synchronicities along her journey, thus far. She gets real about the idea that "everything happens for a reason," she outlines how to recognize when all signs point to "yes," and she gives an example of what it looks like when you hit a dead end. And last, but certainly not least, she gives suggestions for how you can set up a two-way conversation with the universe to get the guidance you crave.   Sara discusses: A big question: how do I know which decision is the RIGHT one? The inclination to look outside ourselves for answers A big sign that Sara got from the universe Ergonomics: Ergonomic Desk Height Calculator How to Make Your Space More Ergonomic Best Stretches for Office Workers You Can Heal Your Life by Louise Hay The belief that "everything happens for a reason" What signs and synchronicities are Suzanne Giesemann's Messages of Hope podcast “Synchronicity – An Acausal Connecting Principle” by Carl Jung Signs on Sara's Career Path Coach Training World in Portland, OR The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod The benefits of signs and synchronicities Masculine vs. feminine approaches How subtle signs can be “Synchronicity is an ever-present reality for those who have eyes to see it.” - Carl Jung What a sign feels like How to set up a two-way conversation with the universe What it might look like when something ISN'T your path Remind yourself: "Things are always working out for me." Giving back to the podcast: Sara's PayPal: sara.mcardle.coaching@gmail.com Sara's Venmo: @Sara-McArdle-Seattle ...and more! Connect with Sara and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit  Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com  Nominate a Podcast Guest: www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Email: womenwhowentforit@gmail.com Phone: 503.893.2043   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart. 

  In this episode, Sara chats with Jen Alonso about her journey from the hospitality industry to early learning to essential oils. Jen shares how her oils business gave her a way to contribute to her family and have her own identity outside that of stay-at-home mom; she gives the inside scoop on what it's actually like to do direct sales; and she talks about how she stepped up as primary breadwinner and her husband jumped in to take on the bulk of the household and childcare duties when his chef position was eliminated due to the coronavirus pandemic. Today, Jen owns a business called Lavender Branches, where she offers group classes and individual support for making healthy lifestyle changes through the use of doTERRA essential oils.   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.   Sara and Jen Discuss: How Sara knows Jen Jen always knowing she wanted to be a mom Jen studying broadcast journalism and quickly realizing it wasn't her thing Growing up as a "military brat" Working in Yellowstone National Park Working at hotels and restaurants Working in early learning Meeting her husband and starting a family Going back-and-forth between working and being a stay-at-home mom Needing more identity than just being "mom" Looking into home businesses Starting to pay more attention to ingredients in products Discovering doTERRA through an ER nurse Realizing quickly that doTERRA was the direction that she wanted to move in Learning through direct experience Her doTERRA business supporting her values of family, continuous learning, travel, contribution, etc. What it's like to teach adults vs. preschoolers How she knows she's now doing "her thing" Her husband getting laid off from his chef position Becoming the breadwinner while her husband took over to care for the home and the kids How she got her business started, financially What she loves about doTERRA as a company Stepping up the number of classes she's teaching, reaching out to more people, ramping up What it's like to do direct sales with friends and family How she got comfortable with selling The ways that doTERRA gives back to the community Her support system What she learned about "career" from her military family How Jen lives life on her own terms How her life has changed since she changed careers Putting up positive, visual reminders around you to keep you on track What the day-to-day of Jen's work looks like The large network of support in doTERRA The Gallup Strengths Finder Clifton Strengths: store.gallup.com/p/en-us/10108/top-5-cliftonstrengths Two of Jen's favorite oils: Balance (tree blend) and Adaptiv (emotions blend) Sara's love for lavender Jen's advice for anyone who wants to become a doTERRA Wellness Advocate The low financial investment of getting started The pros of using natural products ...and more! Jen's Full Bio: Jen Alonso spent a decade in the hospitality industry and then a decade in early learning before becoming an essential oils wellness advocate.   Jen's interest in natural health began after the birth of her first son. She was suddenly very aware of the things he was exposed to and felt a responsibility to make better choices. She began reading product labels and looking for non-toxic, natural options⁠—not just in the foods she and her family were eating, but in the household products they were using.   In 2014, Jen started using essential oils as a teacher in her preschool classroom, and then she began diffusing at home. She immediately dove head-first into learning all she could about using them safely on her kids, her husband, herself.   When Jen left her position as a preschool teacher to stay at home with her kids, her husband worked as a chef. Still, Jen found that she wanted to contribute financially in a meaningful way. So, she became a doTERRA wellness advocate. When the restaurant that her husband worked for closed due to the coronavirus pandemic, Jen's and her husband's roles quickly reversed. Jen immediately stepped in, ramped up her business, and became the breadwinner while her husband jumped in to take on the bulk of the household and childcare duties.   Through her business, Lavender Branches, Jen offers group essential oils classes that cover the basic uses, safety, and many how-to’s. She takes individual appointments to focus on specific health goals, as well. She also hosts free monthly events that cover various health and wellness topics, and make-and-take events where attendees make everything from hand sanitizer to bug spray and take them home to start enjoying the benefits. Jen has a passion for working with people to find natural solutions for everyday situations.   Connect with Jen Alonso and Lavender Branches: Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/jetaoils Website: my.doterra.com/jetaoils   Connect with Sara McArdle and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit  Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com  Nominate a Podcast Guest (we do not take nominations over email): www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Email (see link above to nominate a podcast guest): womenwhowentforit@gmail.com  Phone: 503.893.2043   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.

In this episode, Sara chats with Amanda Heins about her journey from food service industry sales rep, to serial entrepreneur, to independent grocer. Amanda shares the story of her husband passing unexpectedly in 2018 and leaving her sole owner of the store; discovering detailed notes he'd made about upgrading the business; and carrying out and wrapping up his envisioned remodel the day before construction was halted due to COVID-19. Today, Amanda lives in Roslyn, Washington and owns The Roslyn Grocery, a business operating on the front lines during the coronavirus pandemic.   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.   Sara and Amanda Discuss: How they know one another Amanda attending Evergreen State College Working at a restaurant / spa Intending to become a doctor, but deciding against it Being offered a job with Food Services of America Moving to Roslyn, Washington Feeling the stress of working a commission-based job and being on the road all the time Having her children & her husband becoming a stay-at-home dad Realizing that her job wasn't working for her anymore Opening a gift shop Opening a candy store Selling her businesses to employees Opening the grocery store with the vision of Roslyn being walkable The long hours that they worked to get the grocery up and running How they made it work, financially Opening a restaurant across the street Selling the restaurant and gallery Her husband suddenly passing Helping her kids navigate grief Her store becoming passive income for her Taking on volunteer work Being her best self for her kids Doing a solstice ritual and letting go of her past Turning down an offer to move the store into a larger space Cleaning her house and stumbling upon old notes from her husband about expanding the store Securing the money to remodel Finishing up the remodel the day before the governor halted construction during coronavirus pandemic Ramping up security and stocking up the store for coronavirus Real talk on toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and gloves Her supportive mother-in-law Her longer term plan Her pleas for people who live in Western Washington to stay home Her many leaps of faith and refusal to live in fear of the "what-ifs" What this pandemic is teaching us Why she believes everything happens for a reason ...and more! Amanda's Full Bio: Widow and single mother, Amanda Meck Heins, is owner and operator of The Roslyn Grocery in Roslyn, Washington.   Amanda graduated with a bachelor's of science degree from Evergreen State College in Olympia, Washington with the intention of going on to become a doctor. Having worked her way through school in multiple restaurant capacities, she was recruited by restaurant distributor, Food Services of America, and she took a sales position in beautiful Kittitas County, Washington.   When Amanda's children were born, her husband Matt stayed home, and she continued working. But sitting at home, caring for two babies every day became too much. So, the couple decided to open a little gift shop in Roslyn, which was just the beginning. Not long after, Amanda decided that her family and marriage were far more important to her than her sales position with FSA, which had proven to be time-consuming and high-pressure. So, she quit her position there, and the couple went on to open a candy store called Roslyn Sweets & Treats, then The Roslyn Grocery, and then The Red Bird Cafe. While she has since sold the gift shop, candy store, and cafe, Amanda still owns the grocery store.   Just two years ago, on her 40th birthday, Amanda's husband Matt died suddenly and left her a solo parent, and sole owner of The Roslyn Grocery. Early on, Amanda struggled with the grief of carrying on the business without him. But, with the love and support of her staff and community, she has continued to bring their shared dream to fruition. In fact, she finished a upgrade and remodel just in time to even better serve her tight-nit little community during the coronvavirus pandemic.   Connect with Amanda Heins and The Roslyn Grocery: Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheRoslynGrocery   Connect with Sara McArdle and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit  Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com  Nominate a Podcast Guest (we do not take nominations over email): www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Email (see link above to nominate a podcast guest): womenwhowentforit@gmail.com  Phone: 503.893.2043   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.

  In this Sara Solo Show, Sara shares some of her own, personal struggles during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and how she has gradually warmed to what she knows to be true of this time: it is a huge opportunity. She talks about the power of observing our thoughts, behaviors, and habits in this stay-at-home reality and taking what we learn about ourselves to make little tweaks to our lives that will not only get us through our quarantine, but support us to create our own "new normal" when we reemerge.   Sara discusses: Her well-timed break from the podcast Vacationing during the onset of a pandemic Her own COVID-19 fears Softening to the idea that we can learn from the situation we're in What this pandemic is teaching us about presence, the illusion of stability, and our values Adapting the 7Cs of Successful Career Change to success during COVID-19 Sara's companion worksheet: COVID-19 Self-Reflection Questions Links: Down Dog Yoga app Insight Timer app 7-Minute Workout app Ordering groceries for pickup or delivery: Amazon Prime Now Amazon Fresh Instacart Hellofresh Blue Apron Zoom Video Conferencing Honey of the Heart Hive Victorious Lives Parklandia podcast Homemade Wanderlust YouTube Channel Sara and Jen Turnbull's Earth Day Essential Oils Online Class Sara's Facebook page Career Mentor, Toni Patterson Sara's companion worksheet: COVID-19 Self-Reflection Questions Sign up for a free call w/ Sara during April or May & design a stay-at-home life that's aligned with your values ...and more! Connect with Sara and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit  Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com  Nominate a Podcast Guest: www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Email: sara.mcardle.coaching@gmail.com  Phone: 503.893.2043   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.

In this episode, Sara chats with ChristinaMarie Cooper about her journey from fashion design and marketing to scalp micropigmentation. ChristinaMarie talks about how personal brand and presentation have always played a big role in her life, the moment she realized that marketing wasn't a fit for her anymore, and the circumstances that led her to her new, lesser-known but highly fulfilling field that fits so many aspects of her personality. Today, ChristinaMarie is the owner and lead scalp micropigmentation, or hair tattooing artist, at Precision SMP Hair Solutions Clinic in Lynnwood, Washington in the United States.   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.   Sara and ChristinaMarie Discuss: How Sara knows ChristinaMarie ChristinaMarie honing her "personal brand" early in life Growing up in Missouri Always being known for her fashion sense Her love of music Realizing Missouri wasn't a long-term fit for her Going to school for fashion in Miami, sight unseen Help from her father Styling for musical events Helping pick artists for a Latin music festival Completing her two year associates program and wondering what to do next Moving back to Missouri Starting a hip hop + rock record label Creating a business plan and borrowing money from parents Working at a clothing store Meeting her husband Working as an admission coordinator Her husband going back to school for aviation Having kids Feeling overwhelmed managing her young kids and work life Being let go from her job Moving to Washington in 2008 Feeling like she was home, immediately Her education not transferring well to the Seattle market Fashion not feeling right for her anymore Going back to school for marketing Working in marketing & PR after graduation Noticing her pattern of looking for white saviors Her husband's hair loss and how it impacted his self-confidence Learning about scalp micropigmentation and her husband receiving the treatment ChristinaMarie being inspired to learn how to do scalp micropigmentation, herself How SMP fits so many aspects of her personality Going to school for scalp micropigmentation What scalp micropigmentation is and how it works What she loves about being her own boss Her own fears of failure and money fears Support from her husband and family How her background in marketing supports her business Business startup taking longer than expected The benefits of temp work What she'd do differently if she had to do it all over again Advice she'd give to fellow career changers ...and more! ChristinaMarie's Full Bio: ChristinaMarie Cooper earned a bachelor’s degree in Integrated Strategic Communications at the Edward R. Murrow College of Communication at Washington State University, as well as an associates degree in fashion communications and merchandising at Miami International University of Art & Design. She then went on to become a digital marketing specialist in Seattle, Washington. Upon realizing the marketing industry was no longer feeding her spirit, she know she needed something more. For years, she struggled to find a new career direction that not only helped to achieve financial freedom and success, but also one that fit her personally. Her search ultimately led her  becoming a certified scalp micropigmentation technician, which fulfilled her passion of empowering people to be the best version of themselves.   Today, ChristinaMarie is the owner and lead scalp micropigmentation, or hair tattooing artist, at Precision SMP Hair Solutions Clinic, specializing in all forms of hair loss, including male pattern baldness, receding or non-existent hairlines, female densification or alopecia treatments. ChristinaMarie and her company believe that scalp micropigmentation is an effective treatment to hair loss and thinning hair without surgical restoration, or other invasive procedures.   Connect with ChristinaMarie Cooper and Precision SMP Hair Solutions: Her website: www.precisionsmphairsolutionsclinic.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/precision_smp_hairsolutions Facebook: www.facebook.com/smphairsolutionsSeattle   Connect with Sara McArdle and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit  Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com  Nominate a Podcast Guest (we do not take nominations over email): www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Email (see link above to nominate a podcast guest): womenwhowentforit@gmail.com  Phone: 503.893.2043   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.

  In this Sara Solo Show, Sara discusses the relationship between career change and self-care, and asserts that changing one's career from doing work we loathe to doing work we love is the ultimate act of self-care. Sara talks about the realities of work dissatisfaction spilling out into other areas of life and shares compelling data illustrating the psychological, emotional, and health risks associated with continuing to do work that's detrimental to one's well-being. She also offers strategies for getting by before taking the big leap into something new.   Sara discusses: The connection between self-care and career change Her previous episode on the Myth of Personal vs. Professional Temporary self-care fixes while working in a less-than-ideal job When having an "attitude of gratitude" and holding out for the weekend just doesn't cut it anymore The difference between job change & career change Reasons why people continue doing work that isn't working for them Mindset & conditioning that make us stay put The privilege and responsibility that go along with career change When work dissatisfaction spills over into other areas of life The very real psychological, relationship, and health risks associated with doing work that makes us miserable The psychological, relationship, and health benefits associated with doing work we love What you can do in the short-term to make your work situation more tolerable Book recommendation: Nonviolent Communication a Language of Life by Marshall Rosenberg App recommendations: Down Dog (yoga) Insight Timer (meditation) Laughter recommendation: Jim Gaffigan Her previous episode on Commitment, Time Tracking, and the Power of "No" TED Talk about the benefits of being in a state of awe Sign up for a free strategy session phone call with me on my website at www.saramcardle.com Her upcoming vacation and decision to take an episode off ...and more! Connect with Sara and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit  Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com  Nominate a Podcast Guest (we don't take nominations over email): www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Email (see above link to submit a podcast guest nomination): sara.mcardle.coaching@gmail.com  Phone: 503.893.2043   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.

In this episode, Sara talks with her former client, Susan Goodkind Wideman, about Susan's journey from elder law attorney to life design coach for Mid-Lifers and Baby Boomers. Susan shares that, after she burned out from investing almost every once of energy she had in her law practice, she discovered the Women Who Went for It! podcast, connected with Sara for career coaching, and pivoted her path at age 62. Susan is a mom, an elder law & estate planning attorney, an entrepreneur, a widow, a divorcee, an empty-nester, a Yooper, a dog lover, a cross-country skier, a mountain biker, a baby boomer, and now a life design coach running her own coaching business, Goodkind of Life.   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.   Sara and Susan Discuss: Susan's original intentions of pursuing figure skating and fashion design Getting her degree in design and environmental analysis Moving to New York City and working for a design magazine Going on to work directly for a designer Working in marketing for Herman Miller in Grand Rapids, Michigan Her team getting laid off when Herman Miller changed directions Deciding to go law school Getting into elder law & estate planning Moving to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan Working for an elder law firm Deciding to open up her own firm What she loved and didn't love about owning her own business Becoming a widow at age 52, with a 12 year old son Throwing herself completely into her work and becoming "super mom" Irritability impacting her relationships Burning out and being exhausted She and her second husband divorcing Stepping away from work to rest and refresh Selling her law practice to her partner Spending 4 months healing Her fears about career change at her age Realizing the imbalance in her life and her lawyer identity Deciding to become a coach and pursuing training Starting her Goodkind of Life coaching business to support Mid-Lifers and Baby Boomers Recognizing the power of her legal background and how much she enjoys connecting with clients How her understanding of what coaching is has evolved How she recognized coaching was right for her Transitioning her identity from lawyer to coach Not being ready to retire Feeling her spark of creativity reignite The value of a niche How Susan's experience of coaching turned out to be an "industry experiment" The importance of aligning her life with her values Putting herself out there as a coach How she responded to someone else's unsupportive sentiments The benefits of being older in her career change Figuring out her own sequencing for announcing herself as a coach, taking clients, and getting coach training How she picked a coach training program and what she learned The piece of advice that she'd give to someone who's thinking about changing careers at midlife or beyond ...and more! Susan's Full Bio: At 62 years young, Susan Goodkind Wideman is a mom, a life design coach, an elder law & estate planning attorney, an entrepreneur, a widow, a divorcee, an empty-nester, a Yooper, a dog lover, a cross-country skier, a mountain biker, and a baby boomer.   Susan graduated from Cornell University with a degree in Design and Environmental Analysis and went on to work as Editorial Assistant at Industrial Design Magazine. From there, she was hired by Herman Miller, Inc. as a marketing communications specialist. When her department at Herman Miller was eliminated, she spent time as a pharmaceutical rep—work she did not enjoy. So, motivated by the promise of prestige and stability, Susan decided to go to law school at 33. Three years after finishing law school, she opened a successful Elder Law & Estate Planning practice. Her practice grew, she took on a partner, and they became well-known and respected.   About five years ago at the time of this recording, Susan was finding herself angry, irritable and short-tempered. She worked more, slept less, and in 2018, she burned out. While law was lucrative and she provided a valuable service to her clients, it didn’t make her happy.   When she started exploring her options, she found Women Who Went for It! and was so inspired that she reached out to me (Sara McArdle) for one-on-one coaching. As a result of the work we did together, Susan realized the imbalance in her life, and decided to train to be a coach, herself.   In 2019, Susan founded Goodkind of Life, a life design coaching business supporting baby boomers & midlifers who are struggling in the second half of life like she did. She understands their grief, loneliness, hopelessness, anxiety, and depression because she’s been through it. Through Goodkind of Life, Susan helps her clients understand and manage their thoughts and feelings, connect with their core values, and create a life worth living.    Connect with Susan Goodkind Wideman and Goodkind of Life: Her website: www.goodkindoflife.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/goodkindoflife Instagram: www.instagram.com/goodkindoflife   Connect with Sara McArdle and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit  Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com  Nominate a Podcast Guest (we do not take nominations over email): www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Email (see link above to nominate a podcast guest): womenwhowentforit@gmail.com  Phone: 503.893.2043   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.

In this episode, Sara talks with Jeanie Kendall about her journey from medical administration to real estate. Jeanie chats about her hesitation in leaving a career that wasn't everything she longed for because she had an amazing supervisor; she gets real about the impact that stepping down as primary breadwinner for her family had on her self-esteem; and she shares the realities of finding clients and self-promoting in real estate. Today, Jeanie is a real estate agent and broker for Keller Williams Realty in the Greater Seattle Area.    Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.   Sara and Jeanie discuss: How Sara found Jeanie F Bomb Breakfast Club Jeanie attending Humboldt State University with the intention of getting into literature and writing Working at a nonprofit health clinic on campus and working multiple positions there Moving to Florida and continuing to work in healthcare administration Getting transferred to Seattle Having a hard time leaving medical administration because of a fantastic boss Recognizing that she wanted to be her own boss Reevaluating her future as her 45th birthday was approaching Saving to cushion her career transition Remembering her good and bad experiences purchasing homes Experiencing her own foreclosure (and shame) Longing to make a difference in people's lives Appreciating the low startup costs of real estate Taking her real estate agent to lunch and asking about the industry Making the decision to become a real estate agent The challenge of finding her own clients What she's learned about self-promotion Support from her wife, and her mother The impact of temporary low-income on her self-esteem Slowly building her business for two years, keeping her eye on the prize Feeling the pull back into her previous, "known" career (but not going back) The challenges of real estate The power of mentors and networks Her "baby steps" approach Choosing not to confide in others until she was already invested in her career change Earning the trust, as a real estate agent, of her former colleagues in the medical field The similarities between the process of home buying and career change Helping change the minds of people who don't think home buying (or career change!) is possible Jeanie's passion for volunteering and Camp Ten Trees Something to consider: what would you like to do if you had more financial resources to give? Jeanie's advice for people looking to get into real estate ...and more! Jeanie's Full Bio: Jeanie Kendall is a residential real estate broker with Keller Williams, who has been described by clients as “ride or die." In 2018, she left a successful 20-year career in medical administration to pursue a career as a real estate agent with the intention of helping people successfully navigate, and more importantly enjoy the process of buying and selling their homes. Jeanie approaches all of her professional interactions with an objective to assist and empower, and is a fierce advocate for her clients before, during, and after their real estate transactions. Jeanie not only develops strong and long-lasting relationships with her clients, she is respected by her peers who know they can rely on her to be responsive, reliable, and ethical during negotiations and escrow. While her background makes her uniquely qualified to partner with medical professionals for their real estate needs, she is also passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community, and makes a donation to Camp Ten Trees (where she serves as a Board Member and volunteer each summer) each time she earns a commission.     Connect with Jeanie Kendall: Her website: jeaniekendall.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/jeaniekendallRE LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jeanie-kendall-a104031a Instagram: www.instagram.com/jeaniekendall.realestate   Connect with Sara McArdle and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com  Nominate a Podcast Guest (we do not take nominations over email): www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Email (see link above to nominate a podcast guest): womenwhowentforit@gmail.com  Phone: 503.893.2043   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.

In this Sara Solo Show, Sara discusses the workplace gifts and challenges of being an Empath, as defined by Dr. Judith Orloff. She gives examples of ways that Empaths can take on others' emotions and feel them as if they were their own; she discusses how to distinguish which emotions belong to you vs. which feelings you're picking up from others; and she supplies strategies for shielding from and shaking off others' feelings inside and outside of work.   Sara discusses: Her upcoming Ladies' Self-Love Spa Night at Ladywell's Spa in Greenwood on the evening of Monday, Feb. 3 The importance of bolstering one's satisfaction level now, even when planning a career transition The definition of a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP)] The definition of Empath Online tests: Highly Sensitive Person test by Dr. Judith Orloff Empath test What it means to feel someone else's feelings Why it's harder for Empaths to not care what others think or feel Noticing when you feel a feeling that isn't yours Strategies for shifting the energy in the moment Boundary-setting to shield oneself from triggers Tech tips for Empaths Self-care strategies to fill one's own cup and create resilience Meditation - Insight Timer App Affirmations - ThinkUp App Yoga - Down Dog App Exercise - 7 Minute Workout App Reading - Audible Audiobooks Journaling - Penzu App Book recommendation: The Empath’s Survival Guide by Dr. Judith Orloff Her upcoming Ladies' Self-Love Spa Night at Ladywell's Spa in Greenwood on the evening of Monday, Feb. 3 ...and more! Connect with Sara and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit  Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com  Nominate a Podcast Guest (we do not take nominations over email): www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Email (see link above to suggest a podcast guest; we do not take nominations over email): sara.mcardle.coaching@gmail.com  Phone: 503.893.2043   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.

In this episode, Sara talks with Sharon Podobnik Peterson about her journey from educator to monthly subscription box creator and executive leadership coach. Sharon chats about growing up in poverty and over-achieving to stay safe, about experiencing a breakdown during her honeymoon that led her to make big changes in her career path, and talks about how she is still figuring out her own style of work / life balance and figuring out what to say "yes" vs. "no" to. Today, Sharon not only owns Go Love Yourself Box, the #1 rated subscription box for personal growth, but she's also a leadership coach, speaker, writer, business owner, and professor of education at Johns Hopkins University. Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.   Sara and Sharon Discuss: How Sara found Sharon Sara and Kristen Jawad's upcoming Ladies' Self-Love Spa Night on Feb. 3 - Tickets Sharon learning from her entrepreneurial mother What she learned growing up with very little money Working hard and overachieving to stay safe Studying abroad in Australia and Germany Triple majoring at University of Pittsburgh in psychology, sociology, and German Getting recruited by Teach for America to be a middle school math teacher Her promotion to instructional coach "Everything is Figureoutable" book by Marie Forleo Becoming a second grade math teacher Going back to work for Teach for America, this time teaching teachers how to teach Her promotion to instructional specialist A shocking discovery Leaving and working in her dream job at an arts charter school Working as Adjunct Professor of Education at Johns Hopkins University Burning the candle at both ends Taking Ambien to make it through the night and Xanax to get through the day Getting married and having a breakdown on her honeymoon Realizing that the success of her marriage depended on better self-care How she figured out what to do next Starting a "book club," or a book subscription box Her idea morphing into the Go Love Yourself Box Going back to school at Georgetown University for a certificate in Executive Leadership Coaching Pursuing two new careers in tandem to see which would work better The difference between coaching in education vs. coaching as defined by the International Coach Federation The easing of her anxieties through coaching The variety of work she does now Creating work / life balance Her process of setting goals each year Two recommendations: Feminist Book Club The book "The ONE Thing" by Gary Keller Learning how to be bored Doing tiny experiments to figure out what's right for her Noticing the ideas that keep coming back to her Getting going on an idea so you don't fall in love with the plan, itself How the Go Love Yourself Box works and what was in the November 2019 Knock Knock and Emily McDowell Her loudest naysayer The advice she'd give herself if she had to do it all over again ...and more! Sharon's Full Bio: Sharon Podobnik Peterson is a values-driven, multi-passionate, serial entrepreneur. Sharon founded The Go Love Yourself Box, the #1 rated subscription box for personal growth, where she delivers self-directed coaching to women monthly. She is the editor-in-chief of Go Love Yourself Magazine, a monthly publication for-and-by women. She also founded The Center for Conscious Leadership, where she empowers game changers and change agents who are moved to combat systemic inequality and existing privilege structures through workshops and executive leadership coaching.   As a leadership coach, speaker, writer, business owner, and professor of education at Johns Hopkins University, empowerment and self-actualization are at the heart of everything she does. She feels most alive when she’s reading, writing, creating, connecting, and coaching. When she’s not facilitating in-person workshops, she’s exploring the world with her husband, Mark, or reading with her spunky kitty, Annie, in Seattle, Washington.   Connect with Sharon Podobnik Peterson and Go Love Yourself: Her website: www.sharonpodobnikpeterson.com Go Love Yourself Website: www.thegoloveyourselfbox.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/thegoloveyourselfbox The Center for Conscious Leadership: www.thecenterforconsciousleadership.com   Connect with Sara McArdle and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit  Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com  Nominate a Podcast Guest (we do not take nominations over email): www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Email (see link above to nominate a podcast guest): womenwhowentforit@gmail.com  Phone: 503.893.2043   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.

In this episode, Sara talks with Gillian Levine about her journey from administration and customer service to graphic design. Gillian talks about her rocky start in university and the "career world," and her experiences with surviving an assault, the PTSD that followed, and going to rehab to transcend her cycle of self-medicating through alcohol use. She shares how authentic conversations with and encouragement from her former colleagues and supervisor at the University of Washington gave her the push she needed to recognize and pursue her creative passions. Today—less than two years after graduating from Seattle Central Creative Academy—Gillian is a freelance illustrator, designer, and writer doing work for big name clients like Leafly, Target, and Snapchat.   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.   Sara and Gillian Discuss: How Sara knows Gillian Gillian not having a great first experience in college Her struggles picking a career path Working in the service industry, and then being assaulted Experiencing depression and PTSD Feeling safer in 9-5 office jobs Working in customer service at the University of Washington (UW) Going back to school at University of Washington but struggling to find a major that fit Longing to make a positive impact on people's lives but unsure of how A shooting at one of her regular hangouts that triggered her PTSD Drinking to self-medicate and going to rehab Being at her all-time low and not believing in herself Getting another job at a doctor's office and then a temp job at UW Working for corporate and foundation relations at UW Leaving the path of self-destruction A bold question from a coworker that changed the course of her professional life Her corporate and foundation relations supervisor encouraging her to do graphic design for their team UW paying for her to attend graphic design classes, though seemingly unrelated to her work Her now-husband supporting her new career path Going back to school at Seattle Central Creative Academy Getting really good at self-discipline Truly doing her "dream job" now (even though she didn't know what that meant before) What it's like being a freelance designer, working from home How good graphic design means leaving your ego at the door How her background in customer service supports her design work How she finds her clients A gigantic mural she designed for the new Target store in the Ballard neighborhood of Seattle Designing a sticker pack for Snapchat What her two-year graphic design program was like Her husband losing his job while she was studying, and her agreeing to be their temporary breadwinner Her conflicting thoughts of - I can't do what I love AND be paid well for it Initially hating freelancing and having the goal of getting a job Receiving two job offers and seeing that neither was the right fit Transitioning smoothly into freelancing Things that she would have done differently if she could do it all over again Her advice for people considering getting into graphic design General advice she has for people who are going through a big career change ...and more! Gillian's Full Bio: Gillian Levine is an illustrator, designer, and writer who is passionate about helping people bring their ideas to life. She approaches every new project as a puzzle to solve, and strives to understand the individual needs of each client through vigorous research, thoughtful planning, and strong communication. Gillian works in a variety of illustration mediums, from paper cutting to digital painting. She seeks to bring personality, warmth, and color to my work, and aspires to delight her audience while encouraging them to think about ideas in new and thoughtful ways. Gillian is a 2018 graduate of the Seattle Central Creative Academy. Prior to going back to school for graphic design, Gillian worked as a secretary for over 10 years before finally deciding to make a change to pursue her creative passions.   Connect with Gillian Levine: Website: www.gillianlevine.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/professional.baby Dribbble: dribbble.com/gillianlevine Connect with Sara McArdle and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit  Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com  Nominate a Podcast Guest (we do not take podcast guest nominations over email): www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Email (see link above for postcast guest submissions): womenwhowentforit@gmail.com  Phone: 503.893.2043   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.

In this Sara Solo Show, Sara discusses the gifts and challenges of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), as defined by Elaine Aron, and an Empath, as defined by Dr. Judith Orloff. She gives examples of things that HSPs and Empaths can be feel overstimulated by in the workplace, and she gives practical tips for surviving⁠—and even thriving in⁠—an office environment.   Sara discusses: Sara recent urban hiking event, "Women in the Woods: Walking the Path of Personal & Professional Satisfaction" Her upcoming self-love spa night at Ladywell's Spa in Greenwood on the evening of Monday, Feb. 3 The definition of a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) The definition of an Empath The pros of being an HSP Sensory Processing Sensitivity and HSP data Putting the care of your high sensitivities in your own hands rather than expecting others to relate and anticipate your needs The impact an open office plan can have on HSPs Tips for dealing with unwanted sights, sounds, movement, smells, rapid-fire requests, others' emotions and urgent deadlines in the workplace Tools and resources: Fisheye mirror Wall mirror Headphones Gentle Rain YouTube Video White Noise App ASMR by WhispersRed Silent Doorbell Space Heater Fan Elaine Aron's The Highly Sensitive Person Dr. Judith Orloff's The Empath's Survival Guide Susan Cain's Quiet Highly Sensitive Person Test Empath Test InnerGuide Planners Taking time to yourself Why your having healthy boundaries at work is good for your coworkers ...and more! Connect with Sara and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit  Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com  Nominate a Podcast Guest: www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Email: sara.mcardle.coaching@gmail.com  Phone: 503.893.2043   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.

In this episode, Sara talks with Toni Patterson about her journey from psychology to computer programming to law to career mentoring. Toni not only shares her career change story, but she also gives practical tips for positioning oneself in a new industry, both on LinkedIn and in person, and she talks about how to be happier at work, right here and now, even if you're planning to change fields. Today, Toni is both a lawyer and a career mentor, working in Philadelphia and with clients around the globe. Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.   Sara and Toni Discuss: How Toni found Sara Toni's parents nudging her toward medicine (despite her interest in law) Studying premed Organic chemistry throwing a wrench in her plans Realizing she'd been living other people's ideals Switching to psychology Working in a hospital's children's psych ward Questioning her way forward again Leaning toward law but someone telling her she'd be good at computer programming Getting her certificate as a computer programmer Working as a programmer at a financial institution Feeling unfulfilled Remembering her interest in law Quitting her job and going back to school full time to get a law degree Practicing law Becoming a career coach How she knows when she feels truly satisfied What her technology background gave her that other lawyers didn't have How mindset affects job search How to position yourself as an "expert" in your new field on LinkedIn Making the connection with current industry leaders "Putting your own foot through the door" vs "getting a foot in the door" Creating more happiness right now, where you are, even if you want a career change What she'd do differently if she were to go back in time on her career path What to do if you're stuck in analysis paralysis Download Toni's free interview-generating resume template: toniapatterson.com ...and more! Toni's Full Bio: As a career mentor, Toni Patterson works with women striving to attain career fulfillment, without burning themselves out in the process. Toni coaches women to obtain their dream jobs, transition careers, create a career path in their current work environment, overcome mindset blocks to career success, and more.   Connect with Toni Patterson: Website: toniapatterson.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/CareerMentorToni Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/toni-patterson-0a5a74126   Connect with Sara McArdle and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit  Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com Nominate a Podcast Guest: www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Email: womenwhowentforit@gmail.com  Phone: 503.893.2043   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.

In this episode, Sara talks with Christi Shibata about her journey from architecture to physical therapy to firefighting. Christi talks about her career plans changing when she sustained repeated concussions from playing college basketball; how she guided herself, thoughtfully and intentionally, through her career changes; and how she worked in a restaurant as a prep and line chef (with little previous experience!) to make ends meet while at the fire academy. Today, Christi serves as firefighter at the Notre Dame Fire Department and at the Clay Fire Department in Indiana.   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.   Sara and Christi Discuss: How Sara found Christi via the South Bend Tribune Christi attending Kent State University to play basketball and study aeronautics Suffering multiple concussions in basketball Experiencing air sickness, post-concussions, and needing to change her aeronautics plans Beginning a masters in architecture at the University of Notre Dame Taking a medical leave when her studies took a toll Working as a draftsman at an architecture office Experiencing ongoing seizures and spending 4 weeks in the hospital Needing to use a wheelchair, upon her release Seeing the benefits of physical therapy, firsthand, and being inspired to pursue it as a career Getting her associates as a physical therapists assistant Working as a personal trainer and tech in a PT office Graduating and then working in the same clinic as a clinician Noticing the job wasn't a fit Getting her own physical challenges under control Attempting to get into the Coast Guard, but being denied Reexamining the direction she wanted to take her life in, again Landing on firefighting Her sister, Notre Dame police chief, Keri Kei Shibata, helping her connect with the Notre Dame Fire Department Attending the Clay Fire Academy Moving to Indiana from Michigan with no job and no source of income Working as a line & prep chef at the Morris Inn Graduating from the fire academy & applying at the Notre Dame Fire Department Starting her new job in July of 2019 What she loves about firefighting, and what the day-to-day is like The support she received along the way What it was like to take a pay cut to pursue her dream The messages she got when she was growing up about "work" How she guided herself through the process of career changes What it was like to be the oldest person in her fire academy A theme in her life of being the only woman participant What it was like going into the service industry while putting herself through the fire academy The importance of having zero expectations How her faith guides her How she's grown and changed through her career change The advice she has for other career changers ...and more! Christi's Full Bio: Firefighter Christi Shibata was hired onto the Notre Dame Fire Department full time in July 2019 after joining our part-time staff in 2018. She went through the Clay Fire Recruit Academy 16 and continues to work for Clay Fire Department part time as a firefighter. Christi holds a number of state certifications, including Firefighter I & II, EMT-B, and a Michigan Physical Therapist Assistant License. Prior to joining the fire service, Christi treated patients as a Physical Therapist Assistant in an outpatient orthopedic physical therapy clinic in Petoskey, Michigan.   Christi holds a bachelor of science in aeronautics degree from Kent State University, where she played Division 1 basketball. She also has her associates degree as a physical therapist assistant. In her free time, Christi enjoys mountain biking, running, swimming, paddle boarding, motorcycle riding, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and spending time with family.   Connect with Sara McArdle and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit  Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com  Nominate a Podcast Guest: www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Patreon: www.patreon.com/womenwhowentforit Email (for guest nominations, use link above rather than email): womenwhowentforit@gmail.com  Phone: 503.893.2043   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.

  In this Sara Solo Show, Sara discusses all the ways that career change and realizing one's life work is like dating in hopes of meeting one's life partner. And, if we take what we already know about dating and apply it to career change, the whole process can be so much more intuitive to us.   Sara discusses: Her upcoming urban hike in the Seattle area, "Women in the Woods: Walking the Path of Personal & Professional Satisfaction" Her interviews with Self-Care Coach & Massage Therapist, Kristen Jawad Episode 003: From Education to Massage with Kristen Jawad Episode 045: Career Catch-Up Convo with Massage Therapist and Self-Care Coach Kristen Jawad Ways that career change is like dating: 1. You can't rush the process. 2. We often overstay something that's not working. 3. You’re not going to recognize “the one” through reading a description online; you’re going to have to meet in-person. 4. Even though you need to meet in-person to recognize “the one,” it’ll do you good to give some thought to what you want so you’ll know it when you experience it. 5. They may check all the boxes on paper, and still not be "the one." 6. You don’t have to wait until you know exactly what you’re looking for to put yourself out there. 7. The path of obligation doesn’t lead to true love. 8. No sense in twisting yourself into a pretzel to be a person you think everyone is going to want. 9. You're going to face rejection at some point. 10. Your love won’t be exactly like what you pictured. Her solo show, "Episode 032: Curiosity and Investigating the Unexpected with Sara McArdle" Sign up for a free, 30-minute Strategy Session with Sara Become a monthly donor on Patreon Her upcoming urban hike in the Seattle area, "Women in the Woods: Walking the Path of Personal & Professional Satisfaction" ...and more! Connect with Sara and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit  Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com  Nominate a Podcast Guest: www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Email: sara.mcardle.coaching@gmail.com  Phone: 503.893.2043   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.

  In this episode, Sara talks with Courtney McLeod about her abrupt and intentional departure from a well-established career in private equity real estate to pursue her bigger dream of interior design. Courtney shares how she got into design without going back to school for another degree, how much more she enjoys her life now than she did when she was "financially free," and how she realized that she'd been spending money to fill a void that is now filled through doing work she's passionate about. Today, Courtney is the principal of Right Meets Left Interior Design, an award-winning Manhattan-based studio.   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.   Sara and Courtney Discuss: How Sara found Courtney Courtney applying to both architecture school and business school Studying business at The Wharton School Focusing on real estate private equity Getting "the" job she'd been working toward and still feeling unfulfilled Realizing that life is too short Quitting without a plan and feeling great about it Seeking an internship at a firm Stumbling upon her first design client Setting up her own company and promoting herself Growing organically through word of mouth and referrals Finally seeing herself as an "entrepreneur" Realizing her tolerance for risk Choosing an interior design certificate program over going back to school for another degree The value of her business degree The wrong impression that people get about interior design from things like HGTV Noticing that whatever your "thing" is in life, it naturally comes easily Design resources she recommends: The Professional Practice of Interior Design Textbook A Well-Designed Business Podcast Business of Home Podcast Profit is a Choice Podcast Feeling like a fraud when she first told people she was an interior designer Seeing less respect for interior design than her previous industry, finance Realizing that she'd been spending money to fill a void in her life Enjoying her new life much more than she'd ever enjoyed her previous "financial freedom" The challenge of work/life balance when your work IS your hobby How people in her life initially responded to her career change The amazing new relationships she's cultivated through her work The expectation when she was growing up that she get into a high-prestige job Trusting that, because she's smart and she can work hard, she can make things happen Meeting one of her interior design heroines, Sheila Bridges The advice she'd give to someone who's hesitating on pursuing their dream career ...and more! Courtney's Full Bio: Courtney McLeod is the principal of Right Meets Left Interior Design, an award-winning Manhattan-based design studio. An avid colorist at heart, Courtney draws from a kaleidoscopic toolbox of texture, pattern, and color to create rooms evocative of one emotion above all others—joy. Her work has been featured in print both in the US and abroad—including the cover of Aspire Design + Home Magazine. She is a 2019 High Point Market Authority Style Spotter and included on the 2019 list of emerging designers by Luxe Magazine. Courtney is an S. Harris brand ambassador.   Prior to founding the firm, Courtney earned a business degree from The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania and completed design-related studies at Parsons, Pratt, and New York School of Interior Design. The name Right Meets Left perfectly reflects her approach to the design process—rooted in the balance of creative design, or right brain, and analytical rigor, or left brain. The spaces she designs express both her client’s unique tastes and her vivid, collected aesthetic.   Connect with Courtney and Right Meets Left Interior Design: Website: www.rightmeetsleftdesign.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/rightmeetsleftinteriordesign Facebook: www.facebook.com/rightmeetsleftinteriordesign Twitter: twitter.com/RightMeetsLeft Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/rightmeetsleftdesign   Connect with Sara McArdle and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit  Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com  Nominate a Podcast Guest: www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Email: womenwhowentforit@gmail.com  Phone: 503.893.2043   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.

  In this episode, Sara talks with Michele DeCamp about the journey through the undiagnosed chronic pain that ultimately led her to leave mortgage accounting and become a reiki master practitioner. Michele shares how she originally followed the traditional path of "success" and climbed her way through the ranks, how health struggles forced her to seek self-care support from an entire team of medical professionals, and how discovering reiki and energy healing opened up a whole new world of possibility and fulfillment that she never could have imagined before. Today, Michele is a reiki master practitioner and teacher and owns Leading Light Reiki, operating in Shoreline and Edmonds, Washington.   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.   Sara and Michele Discuss: How Sara and Michele met one another at The Creativity Loft Michele's early work Kicking off her career as her mortgage accounting (in hopes of eventually becoming a graphic designer!) Her strong work ethic Following "The American Dream" and climbing her way through the ranks The sudden onset of pain Doctors not being able to diagnose what was going on for her Having one surgery, and then going naturopathic Struggling to continue working through medical procedures and treatments A 10-month process of transitioning out of her mortgage accounting position Losing her sense of purpose and falling into depression Noticing the connection between her career and her sense of identity Her body rejecting a pain relief device that she'd had implanted Getting to Structured Functional Restoration Program at Swedish and working with a team of healthcare professionals Grieving at the realization that the doctors were not going to fix her Receiving a PTSD diagnosis and utilizing hypnotherapy Being introduced to tai chi and qi gong Starting to sense a strong energy sensation in her hands Initially telling herself that reiki wasn't what she was looking for Receiving a reiki healing Remembering the passions of her youth: astrology, tarot, etc. Finding her reiki teacher Going to her first reiki class after educating herself for months via books and the Internet The energy she experienced in the group being beyond anything she could've imagined Realizing her own power to heal Her former employers offering that she could come back to work, but realizing it wasn't her passion Deciding to start a reiki practice and getting a massage table Saying "yes" to the invitation to teach reiki before she felt ready Opening up a home office Working through her perfectionist tendencies Her concerns about what others thought about reiki Books Michele recommends: The Art of Psychic Reiki The Biology of Belief The Body Keeps the Score The advice Michele has for people who are on the cusp of stepping into new work ...and more! Michele's Full Bio: After early work in retail & bookkeeping, Michele DeCamp found a career in mortgage accounting. She advanced quickly, soon managing a team covering mortgage offices throughout America's Pacific Northwest. She felt proud to say she was a workaholic.   One morning, Michele found herself in the ER with sudden, severe pains, and her life changed completely. After more than a year of treatments, testing, and surgery, with multiple employer modifications throughout, she lost her job.   In addition to her medical struggles, losing the pace and identity of work was devastating for Michele, and for many years she sought to regain function and satisfaction in her life. While her previous employers kept offering that she could return to work when she was able, mortgage accounting no longer sounded fulfilling. Engaging with her own caregivers had created a deep sense of connection and given Michele a glimpse of what she wanted to share with others.   Regularly practicing meditation, mindfulness, qi gong, tai chi, and therapy, Michele began finding wellness and peace. She got into energy healing, and in learning reiki, felt an inner calling toward her new career path. She discovered not only her passion to help heal people, but also help people learn how to heal themselves, and found that adding teaching to her private practice was the perfect way to live her purpose.   Today, Michele is a reiki master practitioner and teacher through her business, Leading Light Reiki, operating in Shoreline and Edmonds, Washington.   Connect with Michele and Leading Light Reiki: Website: www.leadinglightreiki.com Twitter: twitter.com/MicheleDeCamp Daylight Healing Center in Edmonds: www.daylighthealingcenter.com   Connect with Sara McArdle and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit  Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com  Nominate a Podcast Guest: www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Email: womenwhowentforit@gmail.com (We do not take guest nominations via email. See link above.) Phone: 503.893.2043   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.

  In this Sara Solo Show, Sara delves into the seventh of her Seven Cs of Successful Career Change, a system that addresses the most common areas that industry changers need to develop in order to be successful in their career shift. Sara points out that the seventh C, or Collaboration, is all about enlisting others to actively support you on your career change journey. 'Cause getting help isn't a luxury (and neither is doing what you love for a living!). You're worth it! So whom should you ask for help? A therapist? A career counselor? A coach? A mentor? Listen and find out! Sara discusses: "Sara Solo Show" episodes that lay the foundation for this one: Episode 026: The Myth of Personal vs. Professional Episode 029: Commitment, Time Tracking and the Power of "No" Episode 032: Curiosity and Investigating the Unexpected Episode 035: The Keys to Clarity Episode 038: Courage and Questioning Our Thoughts Episode 041: Communication and Putting Ourselves Out There Episode 044: Cultivating a Community of Supportive Go-Getters with Sara McArdle Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart The importance of getting the support you need to make your career change happen The difference between therapists, career counselors, career coaches, and mentors (GENERALLY speaking!) You'll get what you put in, no matter whom you work with The idea that getting help, or doing what we love is a luxury Please leave a postcast rating and review Support Women Who Went for It! with a monthly Patreon contribution GET HELP and collaborate by scheduling a free Strategy Session with Sara on her website ...and more! Connect with Sara and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit  Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com  Nominate a Podcast Guest: www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Email: sara.mcardle.coaching@gmail.com  Phone: 503.893.2043   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.

  In this episode, Sara McArdle talks with Sara Wilson about her journey from marketing and communications to marriage and family therapy. Sara Wilson talks about the "lightening bolt moment" that led her to pursue becoming a therapist, the vulnerability of starting over in a new field, and how she recognized her own value and negotiated with a new employer. Today, Sara is finishing up her graduate program at Antioch University in Seattle and working at a center for children with trauma.   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.   Sara McArdle and Sara Wilson Discuss: How they know one another Sara Wilson wanting to be a Broadway actress when she grew up Majoring in International Studies in college and then switching to Communications Deciding she didn't want life to "happen to her" How her mother's passing impacted her outlook Finding a passion for volunteering with teenage girls A "lightening bolt" a-ha moment The time it took for her new idea to germinate The idea of "throwing it all away" for something new Her husband at the time not being on board with her career shift Now working at a center for children with trauma How her past marketing and communications work supports her therapy work Starting over again with a new professional network How everything seemed to align, almost cosmically, to make her career change happen Advocating for herself with a new employer Money fears Learning how to embrace the uncertainty What it's like to do work that makes you feel alive The clinical work she's doing now A recent inspiration: Michelle Obama's book, "Becoming" Her advice for other career changers ...and more! Sara Wilson's Full Bio: Sara Wilson is a woman in the midst of change. After 15 years in the marketing and communications field, she is taking a leap into the world of marriage and family therapy. Currently at the end of her graduate program and working at a center for children with trauma, Sara is passionate about kids, teens, and families. Changing careers has been an exhilarating, challenging journey⁠—one that even took Sara to Cambodia earlier this year—and she is so glad she took the leap. Sara holds a bachelor's degree in communications from the University of Washington, and soon, a masters degree in counseling psychology from Antioch University Seattle. Outside of school and work, Sara loves to travel, cook, and spend time with her cats and partner in Bellingham, Washington.   Connect with Sara McArdle and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit  Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com  Nominate a Podcast Guest: www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Patreon: www.patreon.com/womenwhowentforit Email (for guest nominations, use link above rather than email): womenwhowentforit@gmail.com  Phone: 503.893.2043   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.

  In this episode, Sara talks with Kristen Jawad, who was featured on episode 003 of Women Who Went for It. At the time, Kristen detailed her journey from education to massage. Since January of 2018, Kristen's career has continued to evolve. In the last year and a half (as of the time this episode was recorded), she has earned a BodyMind coaching certification, opened an Airbnb, and founded a nonprofit! Today, Kristen offers organic, seasonally inspired body care & coaching in her cozy Kirkland, Washington studio; she also hosts solo retreats via Airbnb; and she supports young people to learn self-reflection and decision making techniques through her nonprofit, Clarity4Action.   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.   Sara and Kristen Discuss: The workshops they've been doing together The first time Kristen was on Women Who Went for It: From Education to Massage with Kristen Jawad Gail Kronberg's Singing Bowl Soundsations Where Kristen was at with her business in January 2018 Background on why Kristen moved from education to massage, in the first place Being called to take her work beyond the massage room Hosting people and experiences in her new Airbnb Her decision to become a certified coach How she chose her coaching program, iPEC Nonviolent Communication from Marshall Rosenberg Her nonprofit, Clarity4Action Ways she's stretching and growing in her work Why she loves community learning experiences How her husband's work has changed since her last interview, too The threads that tie all of the work she does together The importance of tinkering and not being too attached to the outcome What it was like to get an Airbnb up and running (including online research AND asking people who were already doing it!) Resources Kristen recommends: CTZNWELL Center for Restorative Solutions Empowering Connection Brené Brown Jessica Butts How Kristen is figuring out what she wants to be when she grows up Women Who Went for It! on Patreon (Consider making a donation!) Sara's approach of Whole Person Coaching Working with people on self-care leadership projects ...and more! Kristen's Full Bio: Kristen Jawad is dedicated to cultivating radiant well-being through traditional bodywork therapies & transformational life coaching experiences. As a wife, mother and business owner, she understands the challenges of integrating work, rest & pleasure. She uses The BodyMind coaching model to support her clients on a deeper level. She offers organic, seasonally inspired body care & coaching in her cozy Kirkland, Washington studio. She also hosts solo retreats via Airbnb & selfcare pop-up events locally.   Connect with Kristen, Women's Wellness Studio & Clarity4Action: Website: www.kristenjawad.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/kristenrjawad Facebook: www.facebook.com/massageforher Airbnb: abnb.me/DTAUcZNOPY Clarity4Action: clarity4action.org   Connect with Sara McArdle and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit  Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com  Nominate a Podcast Guest: www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Patreon: www.patreon.com/womenwhowentforit Email (for guest nominations, use link above rather than email): womenwhowentforit@gmail.com  Phone: 503.893.2043   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.

  In this Sara Solo Show, Sara delves into the sixth of her Seven Cs of Successful Career Change, a system that addresses the most common areas that industry changers need to develop in order to be successful in their career shift. Sara points out that the sixth C, or Community, is all about surrounding yourself with people who have dreams, desire, and ambition who'll help you push for, and realize, your own. Sara discusses: "Sara Solo Show" episodes that lay the foundation for this one: Episode 026: The Myth of Personal vs. Professional Episode 029: Commitment, Time Tracking and the Power of "No" Episode 032: Curiosity and Investigating the Unexpected Episode 035: The Keys to Clarity Episode 038: Courage and Questioning Our Thoughts Episode 041: Communication and Putting Ourselves Out There Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart How significant industry change goes against societal norms The importance of making the time and space to look at one's own social circles and networks An example of what an environment unsupportive of career change could look like What a supportive environment could look like How "keeping up with the Joneses" can take on a new meaning Taking an inventory of the people you spend the majority of your time with What to do you if you are surrounded by folks who aren't supportive Building your own supportive community The perks of being connected to the right people Starting small with taking in optimistic, supportive voices through books, podcasts, videos, etc. Starting to attend local events that sound interesting and spark your curiosity Participating in personal and professional development groups, like a Lean In Circle The notion that ideas, themselves, develop momentum Study: A Network’s Gender Composition and Communication Pattern Predict Women’s Leadership Success Schedule a free Strategy Session with Sara on her website ...and more! Connect with Sara and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit  Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com  Nominate a Podcast Guest: www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Email: sara.mcardle.coaching@gmail.com  Phone: 503.893.2043   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.

  In this episode, Sara talks with Jen Dulski about her journey through crippling grief after the tragic passing of her best friend to finding hope and purpose by starting a full-time dog sanctuary—on top of her work as a full-time attorney! Jen shares how she managed to survive her grief, one day at a time; she talks about all of the "heaven-connected" steps and synchronicities that led her to where she is today; and she shares why it's so worth it to her to work so hard for something she's so passionate about. Today, Jen owns Always and Furever Midwest Animal Sanctuary, a loving, safe refuge for homeless senior dogs.   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.   Sara and Jen discuss: How Sara found Jen Jen's interview with Suzanne Giesemann on Messages of Hope Jen's childhood dreams and how family matters changed them Her first job How she chose to study finance Going to law school and practicing as a 1940 Act Attorney Moving from Illinois to Pittsburgh, then back to Chicago, then to Boston Losing her best friend, Sam, to an accidental drug overdose and the grief that followed A recruiter reaching out to her about a job in Overland Park, Kansas Taking the job in Kansas Her family and friends' response to her moving to Kansas The moment she realized she should start a dog rescue Her approach to big goals How she got through the first anniversary of Sam's passing Starting a nonprofit called Sam's Devotions Starting a Facebook group called Hope ASAP Synchronicities that led her to buying her farm Turning the Hope ASAP Facebook group into a nonprofit and hosting an annual retreat at the farm Starting Always and Furever Midwest Animal Sanctuary Securing a business loan Problems with construction The environment she created at the farm What it's like working two full-time jobs Supporting dogs as they cross the rainbow bridge The advice that Jen would give to someone going for their big dreams ...and more! Jen's Full Bio: Jen Dulski received her JD from the University of Illinois College of Law and has been an investment management attorney for 14 years. She’s licensed in Illinois, Pennsylvania, and Kansas.   After losing her best friend to an accidental drug overdose in 2015, Jen was completely devastated and needed to find a way survive her broken heart. In 2016, a new job opportunity led her from a large law firm in Boston to an in-house position in Overland Park, Kansas. While she didn't know a soul in the entire state, Jen knew she needed her life to be different, and she jumped on the opportunity.   Within a month of moving to Kansas, the thought came to Jen one day - seemingly out of the blue - that she had to find a new way of creating her own happiness. So, she bought a farm and started a senior dog rescue. At this point, Always & Furever Midwest Animal Sanctuary has been up and running for 14 months and has saved the lives of over 350 dogs.   Jen was featured on the “Messages of Hope” radio show with Suzanne Giesemann, she was visited by famed Kansas City Secret Santa, and Always & Furever has been featured on local news stations and is to be featured in an article in The Kansas City Star.   Jen has only just begun this incredible Always & Furever journey, and she can’t wait to see what the future holds for all of the precious souls that have touched so many lives, making their way in and out of a little red barn, in a small town in Kansas, filled with so much love.   Connect with Jen and Always and Furever Midwest Animal Sanctuary: Website:  alwaysandfurever.love Instagram: www.instagram.com/alwayandfurever Facebook: facebook.com/nevertoolateforhappilyeverafter   Connect with Sara McArdle and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit  Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com  Nominate a Podcast Guest: www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Email: womenwhowentforit@gmail.com  Phone: 503.893.2043   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.

  In this episode, Sara talks with Tikiri Herath about her journey from managing corporate risk programs for the Canadian government to writing thriller novels. Tikiri shares how major, life-disrupting events caused her to reexamine her definition of a "successful" life, how she recognized her deeper calling, and her process of carefully planning and executing her career change over a number of years. Today, Tikiri is an award-winning novelist and author and founder of the Rebel Diva Academy.   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.   Sara and Tikiri discuss: How they got connected Sara's interview with Chelsea Behrens of Rise to the Occasion Tikiri's global upbringing Tikiri moving to Vancouver, B.C., Canada Striking out on her own at 19 Working her way up and getting comfortable with being uncomfortable Putting herself through school doing menial jobs Landing a terrific job after graduating Getting comfortable in her cushy lifestyle and forgetting the fire within her How unhappiness at work led to a hard-nosed attitude A series of life events that shook her to her core Feeling like her office lanyard was a noose around her neck Moving to Europe with her husband, who got a diplomatic position Feeling compelled to write about her travel experiences Divorcing and moving across Canada Connecting with her gut instincts The important role books played in her life How she planned and prepared for her career change over a few years Saying goodbye to her 6-figure pension A boss telling her she wasn't going to leave her job Staying on and working remotely for a couple of years as she transitioned The moment she first recognized what she wanted to do with her life Writing her first novel and then three subsequent nonfiction books Using her background in project management to navigate her career change The importance of looking inward to see what kind of life you want to live A short message from a professor that made a big impact on her The thrillers she writes about strong, kick-@$$ girls from across the world who overcome adversity Her Rebel Diva nonfiction books and online course, that help people connect with their values & purpose The advice she'd given someone looking to make a big career change Her number one book recommendation: The Top Five Regrets of the Dying by Bronnie Ware Her free e-book: Bust Your Fears ...and more! Tikiri's Full Bio: Tikiri Herath is the multiple award-winning author of the Red Heeled Rebels international thriller novels and the Rebel Diva empowerment book series. She is also the founder of the Rebel Diva Academy, an education and media company designed to inspire and uplift women around the world.   When she’s not writing or plotting another fictional crime scene, she’s in her kitchen cooking up fusion cuisine with a glass of red wine in hand and sweet jazz playing in the background. She is also an adrenaline junkie who has rock climbed, bungee jumped, rode on the back of a motorcycle across Quebec, flown in an acrobatic airplane upside down, and parachuted solo.   Born on a tropical island in the Indian Ocean, Tikiri spent her childhood in the savannas of Southern Africa, and her adult life working in Southeast Asia, Europe, and North America. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Victoria in British Columbia and a Master’s degree from the Solvay Business School in Brussels. After a lifetime of global travel and work, she is now a recovering nomad who calls Vancouver, Canada home.   Connect with Tikiri and Red Heeled Rebels: Website: rebeldivas.com Instagram: instagram.com/redheeledrebels Facebook: facebook.com/RedHeeledRebels Free Bust Your Fears e-book:  https://dl.bookfunnel.com/851k80zuw1   Connect with Sara McArdle and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit  Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com  Nominate a Podcast Guest: www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Email: womenwhowentforit@gmail.com  Phone: 503.893.2043   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.

  In this Sara Solo Show, Sara delves into the fifth of her Seven Cs of Successful Career Change, a system that addresses the most common areas that industry changers need to develop in order to be successful in their career shift. Sara points out that the fifth C, or Communication, requires us to get out there and interact with people to further our career change process, and she gives practical tips and tricks for building the confidence to do so. She also points out when it's better NOT to put yourself out there.   Sara discusses: "Sara Solo Show" episodes that lay the foundation for this one: Episode 026: The Myth of Personal vs. Professional Episode 029: Commitment, Time Tracking and the Power of "No" Episode 032: Curiosity and Investigating the Unexpected Episode 035: The Keys to Clarity Episode 038: Courage and Questioning Our Thoughts Her choice to go unscripted this week Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart Why it's critical to get out there in career change The identity shift that career change brings What it looks like when someone really puts themselves out there in this process An activity that helps people clearly see their transferable skills How your previous jobs prepared you to do what you're going into Soliciting feedback from others A technique for dealing with feelings of failure after job loss Further gearing up for intimidating interactions Casual approaches to networking How (again!) this is all like dating When NOT to put yourself out there ...and more! Connect with Sara and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit  Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com  Nominate a Podcast Guest: www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Email: sara.mcardle.coaching@gmail.com  Phone: 503.893.2043   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.

  In this episode, Sara talks with Sondra Firestein about her journey from real estate agent to personal concierge. Sondra shares how she stumbled across her business idea, how she overcomes the critical voice in her head that could otherwise derail her, and how she grew her business, slowly and organically. Today, Sondra owns Pursuit Concierge, an on-demand personal assistance membership service that helps Seattle business owners, parents, and corporate climbers identify what they can delegate, and connects them with the resources necessary to make their personal and professional goals their reality.   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.   Sara and Sondra discuss: How they got connected Sara's interview with Erin Merrihew in Episode 012 The messages Sondra got about "career" when she was growing up Her original dream of becoming an astronaut to solve the climate crisis Realizing she wasn't a scientist Getting a degree in architecture Considering becoming a sustainable interior designer Moving to Lake Tahoe Working in quality assurance at an appraisal management company Moving to Seattle Starting a career in real estate Side hustling in event design Seeing that her clients were too busy to meet with her Realizing that she didn't want to be in real estate or event design Feedback she received at a speed networking event that tipped her off to her future career What a personal concierge is The ways that we all already delegate in our lives How better delegation can improve relationships How her company's support helped change one person's life Figuring out how to start a concierge business through trial and error The evolution of her business vision How she made it work, financially Her slow, organic business growth How Sondra deals with that critical voice in her head Resource: Seattle-based mindfulness coaches, Tay and Val of M Meditation Sondra's networking resources and tips: Gather Seattle Business Networking International FBomb Community YPIN Sondra's advice for people starting their own businesses Where to connect with Sondra and Pursuit Concierge online ...and more! Sondra's Full Bio: Over the last 5 years, Sondra Firestein has helped more than 100 Seattle professionals create room in their lives for what brings them joy with mindful delegation™. She founded Pursuit Concierge in 2014, after working as a real estate agent and for an elaborate event designer. Noticing her clients, like young newlyweds and first-time homebuyers, were stretched thin, she wanted to offer a solution that would empower them to overcome the overwhelm. Pursuit Concierge was created to be a work-life balance solution for entrepreneurs, corporate ladder climbers, and families.   Sondra works closely with her clients to help them identify what they can delegate, and connects them with the resources necessary to make their personal and professional goals their reality. Believing strongly that people are better contributors to society when they're well-supported, she devotes her time to nurturing her team, her clients, and her personal relationships, including the one with herself.   Connect with Sondra and Pursuit Concierge: Pursuit Concierge's website: pursuitofseattle.com Pursuit Concierge's Instagram: instagram.com/pursuitconcierge Sondra's Instagram: instagram.com/pursuitofsondra Pursuit Concierge's "Thoughts" blog: pursuitofseattle.com/thoughts   Connect with Sara McArdle and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit  Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com  Nominate a Podcast Guest: www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Email: womenwhowentforit@gmail.com  Phone: 503.893.2043   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.

In this episode, Sara talks with Jaki McQuiston about her journey from the nonprofit world to owning and operating an art studio and coworking space. Jaki shares the story of losing her son when he was just 11 days old, a heart-wrenching experience that ultimately gave her a nudge her to "go for" a vision she'd been dreaming up since she was a child. Jaki also describes how she recognizes when she's "on her path," and how her idea of fear changed after "the worst that could ever happen, happened." Today, Jaki owns The Creativity Loft, a community space for artistic expression and healing in Shoreline, Washington, and she creates handmade leather jewelry through her business, Jacqueline LaBerge.   Want to make your own career change?Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.   Sara and Jaki discuss: How they got connected Sara's story about The Creativity Loft on her solo show, The Keys to Clarity Jaki studying sociology and psychology in college Her intention to be a counselor Working with youth and art in after school programs Working as a youth care counselor in a boys' home Working as a director's assistant at a nonprofit for women in Oakland, CA Applying for a Masters in Public Administration Moving back to Seattle to care for her grandmother Working for a nonprofit in Seattle Getting out of a hostile work environment Being unemployed for months Getting into real estate Working at an accounting firm whose clients were nonprofits Considering pursuing a CPA Training to be a life coach Working in coaching on the side of accounting A big question she received that led her to rethink her path forward Letting go of the idea of "supposed to" be doing certain things Sound advice that gave her the boost she needed Getting her coaching business up and running Supporting OTHER people to do what makes them happy Her coaching business not taking off Her consulting business, Mulika Project How her vision of community, art, and inclusivity started in school Traveling to Cuba and being inspired by the sense of community there How the birth and death of her son proved to be a transformative experience Walking into the space where The Creativity Loft it and seeing its potential How the vision of The Loft came to life What it feels like to Jaki to be "on the path" Resources she recommends: Martha Beck's Following Your Own North Star book The body compass How The Creativity Loft has been "survival" for Jaki How Jaki accepted help to get her idea off the ground The Loft's "hygge" style How her idea of "fear" changed after the worst thing that could happen, happened The advice she'd give herself at the beginning her Creativity Loft journey Jaki's leather jewelry business, Jacqueline LaBerge ...and more! Jaki's Full Bio: Jaki McQuiston’s love and practice of art started when she was very young, and she’s taken classes and practiced in many fine art mediums, including painting, drawing, photography, ceramics, jewelry making, mosaics, sewing, knitting, and other crafts. Her desire is to bring the healing possibilities of art practice to those who may be suffering from loss, depression, anxiety, or stress.   Jaki had dreamed of creating a community space for years, and remembers writing a paper in high school about the lack of community spaces. At that time, her concern was specifically for teenagers like herself. Her dream has always been to create a space for creatives that is both inspiring and supportive. A home away from home. A place that not only provides opportunities to expand one’s work, but empowers people to believe in themselves, take risks, and reach their success, whatever that looks like.   Recently, Jaki experienced tragedy. Her son was born at the end of April 2018 and was not well, which Jaki and her husband had no indication of prior to his birth. He lived only 11 days. While Jaki’s experience was devastating and continues to be challenging in her grief, she experienced such beautiful moments with him and the people who've supported her, her husband and their daughter this journey. The light that her son has given her is about fully showing up to whatever life gives you. So, when a creativity space became available, Jaki saw its opportunity. Listening to her inner voice, she ran with it… one step at a time, and opened The Creativity Loft in Shoreline, Washington.   Since opening the Loft, Jaki has also started her jewelry line, Jacqueline LaBerge, where she expresses herself creatively and shares her love for art.   Connect with Jaki, The Creativity Loft and Jacqueline LaBerge Jewelry: The Loft's website:  http://thecreativityloft.com The Loft's Instagram: https://www.facebook.com/TheCreativityLoft Jaki's email: info@thecreativityloft.com  Jacqueline LaBerge jewelry:  https://jacquelinelaberge.com   Connect with Sara McArdle and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit  Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com  Nominate a Podcast Guest: www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Email: womenwhowentforit@gmail.com  Phone: 503.893.2043   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.

  In this Sara Solo Show, Sara delves into the fourth of her Seven Cs of Successful Career Change, a system that addresses the most common areas that industry changers need to develop in order to be successful in their career shift. Sara points out that the fourth C, or Courage, requires us to notice our hidden fears and worries, and choose not to let them get the best of us.   Sara discusses: "Sara Solo Show" episodes that lay the foundation for this one: Episode 026: The Myth of Personal vs. Professional Episode 029: Commitment, Time Tracking and the Power of "No" Episode 032: Curiosity and Investigating the Unexpected Episode 035: The Keys to Clarity Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart Why the word "Courage" vs. the word "Confidence?" How doubts can undermine our success Why we get so paralyzed when we're considering career change Deep-seated fears that can sound like: I don't need to have an amazing job. Doing what you love is a luxury. Other people might be envious of my success. I only need to make a certain amount of money. Making good money could corrupt me. I should be happier with everything I've already got. If I turn my work into a hobby, it's going to feel like "work." How does your body feel when you think: I deserve to do work that I absolutely love. If I take the leap and do work that I love, the right people will be happy for me, and even inspired by me. I can do something I love, *and* I can be paid well for it. Making a lot of money would be AWESOME. Marie Manuchehri's radio show The power of asking oneself king "what if" questions How our thoughts, emotions and actions are all tied together F.E.A.R. = "False Evidence Appearing Real" Learning how to catch our thoughts as they arise Insight Timer app Seattle Insight Meditation Society Kadampa Meditation Center Alternatives to sitting in meditation Deciding to do what you need to do to feel better NOW, no matter your circumstances "The Work" of Byron Katie Is this thought true? Can I absolutely know it's true? How do I act when I believe it's true? Who would I be, or what would I do, without this thought? What if the opposite were true? ...and more! Connect with Sara and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit  Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com  Nominate a Podcast Guest: www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Email: womenwhowentforit@gmail.com  Phone: 503.893.2043   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.

  In this episode, Sara McArdle talks with Sarah Dylan Jensen about her journey from the fashion industry to social media, marketing, and managing farmers markets. Sarah Dylan Jensen shares how she established personal connections to break into her new industries, how she built up her confidence along the way, how she determines which projects to say "yes" or "no" to, and she gives practical tips to anyone who might be intimidated putting themselves out there in a new way. Today, Sarah manages the Snohomish, Mill Creek, and Stanwood Farmers Markets in Washington state, and she owns her own social media and marketing business, Mockingjay Press, supporting small, local shops and businesses.   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.   Sara and Sarah Discuss: Sara McArdle's upcoming workshop, Self-Care for the Overworked & Overwhelmed Sara's workshop collaborator, Kristen Jawad of Women Who Went for It episode 003 Sara & Sarah meeting through their mutual friend, Angie Louthan of Women Who Went for It episode 005 Sarah Dylan Jensen growing up and going to school in Alaska Studying at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising in Southern California Finding herself out of her element Moving to Seattle Working at Eddie Bauer Finding fashion to be different than the image presented in school Working at Tommy Bahama Doing some admin work to get out Working at Brooks Sports in factory operations Applying for three design positions there and not getting them Working for Zumiez Deciding to call it quits in fashion Attending meetups in downtown Snohomish, Washington Feeling empowered Seeing that she was living out of alignment with her values in the fashion industry A trip to Iceland that changed her outlook on life and her career Coming back and feeling like she was "in the wrong skin" Asking her networking community, "What services do you need?" and hearing "social media!" Faking it until she made it Taking the leap into full-time work in social media Setting goals for herself and blowing past them Becoming known as the person who could get anything done Saying "yes" to everything A friend suggesting she apply to manage the Snohomish Farmers Market Getting hired on the spot How she first picked fashion design Informational interviews Taking on the Mill Creek Farmers Market Her decision to move to downtown Snohomish What the day-to-day of managing farmers markets looks like What inspires Sarah to go above-and-beyond in her new work How she determines what to say "no" to Her process for changing industries How she built up her confidence Surrounding herself with supportive community The networking group that she's on the board of: Snohomish Networking Women Networking tips A cool meetup she went to in Seattle: Geek Girl Brunch Current fears that pop up in her career Presenting at Washington State Farmers Market Association in 2019 Sara McArdle's recommendation - TED Talk coach, Erin Loman Jeck Sarah Dylan Jensen's advice for women who want to go for it ...and more! Sarah Dylan Jensen's Full Bio: Farmers Market Manager and Social Media Maven, Sarah Dylan Jensen, studied fashion design at the Fashion Institute for Design & Merchandising in Southern California. She immediately jumped into the design industry at Eddie Bauer, followed by Tommy Bahama, Zumiez, Kische, and Brooks Sports. After 10+ years in the industry, she decided it was time to move toward a smaller, more localized focus, and away from the politics that office jobs - even in fashion design - can bring.   Sarah created Mockingjay Press with the dream of bringing desire back to small-town shopping. In her social media business, she helps bring awareness and insight to supporting small, local shops & businesses. Through curated connections in the community, she became the Snohomish Farmers Market Manager in 2015. As market manager, Sarah curates an engaging vendor mix, working with local artisans, creators, and farmers. Sarah handles the social media & graphic advertising for her (now 3) farmers markets, along with her growing client list in & around the greater Snohomish area.   Sarah was a featured speaker at the 2019 Washington State Farmers Market Association conference, as well as the 2018 Women in Business Conference. Connect with Sarah Dylan Jensen, Mockingjay Press, and Her Farmers Markets: Mockingjay Instagram: www.instagram.com/mockingjaypress Mockingjay website: www.mockingjaypress.com Mockingjay Facebook: www.facebook.com/mockingjaypress Snohomish Farmers Market: www.snohomishfarmersmarket.org Mill Creek Farmers Market: www.millcreekfarmersmarket.org  Stanwood Farmers Market: www.stanwoodfarmersmarket.org   Connect with Sara McArdle and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit  Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com  Nominate a Podcast Guest: www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Email: womenwhowentforit@gmail.com  Phone: 503.893.2043   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.

  In this episode, Sara talks with Kelly Herzberg about her move from hospital psychometry and standardized testing for kids with Autism into thrift styling. Kelly talks about how she transitioned her career over a four year period, she reveals the insecurities she had about going into business for herself full-time, and she describes her compassionate, body neutral approach to styling. Today, Kelly owns Sweet Kelly Anne Styling, a personal styling service that specializes in finding high quality clothing at thrift stores.   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.   Sara and Kelly Discuss: Sara finding Kelly through Seattle Goodwill & a piece on KIRO Radio Kelly majoring in psychology and leadership studies at the University of Minnesota Her intention to be a guidance counselor Not knowing what a career in school psychology would look like Hating her internship Applying for jobs outside her field Starting her "professional career" at Seattle Children's Hospital Moving into a psychometry role, doing standardized testing with kids with Autism Working in that position for nine years Shopping at Goodwill out of necessity Her coworkers loving her style and asking her to shop with them First doing thrift styling as a hobby, and then seeing a niche making money at it Her self-doubt Starting her styling business in 2014 Building her confidence Working two jobs at the same time for four years Why she was attracted to school psychology in the first place Kelly's (and women's!) desire for external validation How Kelly ensures she's making the right decisions for herself The difference between passions & interests Shame How Kelly made the transition work, financially Work/life balance as an entrepreneur doing what she loves Impostor syndrome Being a solopreneur Business resources Kelly recommends: Marie Forleo's B-School Shanna Skidmore's Blueprint Model What Kelly learned from her parents about work and career Outsourcing How she structures her work week The process of working with her as a stylist The benefits of thrifting Collaborating with clients What "body neutrality" is Kelly's biggest piece of advice for the listeners ...and more! Kelly's Full Bio: Kelly Herzberg is Seattle's premier thrift stylist. She is the founder of Sweet Kelly Anne Styling, a personal styling service that specializes in finding high quality clothing at thrift stores. She has been featured in various Seattle publications and media outlets, including KIRO Radio (twice!) and the KING 5 morning show, "New Day Northwest."   Kelly studied psychology at the University of Minnesota and then moved to Seattle to pursue a graduate degree at the University of Washington. After graduating with a Master's in School Psychology, she promptly realized she did not want to be a school psychologist. So, she pivoted and began her professional career at Seattle Children's Hospital—first as a family services coordinator, then quickly moving into the role of psychometrist. During her tenure, she began styling her coworkers which lead to launching a personal styling business in 2014. In May of 2018, she quit her job to pursue styling full time.   Along with being a personal stylist, Kelly is also a licensed mental health therapist and certified life coach, both which greatly inform her styling philosophy and practice. She values self-love, self-acceptance, and body neutrality, and she seeks to inspire these values through fashion.   Connect with Kelly and Sweet Kelly Anne Styling: Website: www.sweetkellyannestyling.com  Facebook: www.facebook.com/sweetkellyannestyling Yelp: www.yelp.com/biz/sweet-kelly-anne-styling-seattle   Connect with Sara and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit  Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com  Nominate a Podcast Guest: www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Email: womenwhowentforit@gmail.com  Phone: 503.893.2043   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.

  In this Sara Solo Show, Sara delves into the third of her Seven Cs of Successful Career Change, a system that addresses the most common areas that industry changers need to develop in order to be successful in their shift. Sara points out that the third C, or Clarity, comes from taking ACTION!   Sara discusses: The story of her career transformation in Women Who Went for It Episode 001 Sara's new office space: The Creativity Loft The synchroncities that made her choice clear Episodes that lay the foundation for this one: Episode 026: The Myth of Personal vs. Professional with Sara McArdle Episode 029: Commitment, Time Tracking and the Power of "No" with Sara McArdle Episode 032: Curiosity and Investigating the Unexpected Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart Journal prompts: Who's careers have you envied and thought - that is so cool? What's so cool about it? Are there careers that you thought about when you were younger, but wrote them off as impractical or impossible? Is that true, when you take a deeper look? Most people's backward approach to finding clarity Clarity comes through taking action The humility it takes to approach something new as a beginner Start small with clarity: what are you clear about - right here, right now, from where you stand? Picking 3 exciting "industry experiments" How to tell the difference between something you're clearly excited about and something you're telling yourself you could be The necessity of direct experience The industry experiments that Sara did on her own career transformation journey How all opportunities are connected to people Industry experiments: classes, lectures, events, workshops, volunteer opportunities, etc. How to set up accountability structures so you follow through on your experiments More journal prompts for AFTER your industry experiments: How does your body feel? Would you want to feel that way over and over, multiple days a week? What were the people you interacted with like? Would you want to spend most of your working hours around folks like that? What info did you take away? Contacts? What it takes to get into the field? Other resources? What people in that field do or don't like about their job? Note any synchroncities What are you clear about now? What do you know now that you didn't know before? And how does that inform what you do next? How each little tidbit of clarity adds up to a bigger, clear picture Sara's upcoming workshop: Self Care for the Overworked and Overwhelmed ...and more! Connect with Sara and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit  Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com  Nominate a Podcast Guest: www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Email: womenwhowentforit@gmail.com  Phone: 503.893.2043 Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.  

  In this episode, Sara talks with Natalie Walstein about her move from graphic design into career astrology. Natalie shares what astrology revealed about her deeper life's work; her process for making the transition from one business into another; and she assures us that, deep down, we all have a inkling about what we were born to do. Today, Natalie owns Soulshine Astrology, where she blends ancient astrological guidance with modern, down-to-earth career coaching to help her clients discover their true calling.   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.   Sara and Natalie Discuss: Sara finding Natalie on Spirit Guides Radio What Sara loves about astrology Natalie's Cosmic Calling podcast Natalie always knowing she wanted to do graphic design Studying communication design in Vancouver Starting her own design business and designing for female entrepreneurs Falling out of love with her work Moving to Hawaii and falling in love with the night sky there Being asked (3x in one month!) to design moon trackers Looking at her astrology chart Not realizing that astrology and intuitive careers were a "thing" Taking an 8-day intensive masterclass astrology intensive Experiencing a spiritual awakening Reading charts for friends, family and a handful of first clients How she helps others get in tune with what they were meant to do The complex layers of astrology People looking outside themselves instead of within Fears that keep us from living into our full potential How previous career skills and experiences build us up to something bigger How Natalie built her business The financial struggles that she experienced along the way The importance of perseverance Natalie's initial fears about becoming an astrologer Learning how to talk to different audiences Gaining confidence and a strong sense of self How Natalie's chart reveals that she's doing her Cosmic Calling What "career" means to her Natalie's business astrology readings How astrology confirms what you already know about yourself and your business Resource Natalie recommends: astrology books by April Elliott Kent Natalie writing her own book about career astrology How astrology is a science Natalie's advice for people who think it's too late to make a career change ...and more! Natalie's Full Bio: As a Career Astrologer at Soulshine Astrology, Natalie Walstein blends ancient astrological guidance with modern, down-to-earth career coaching to help you discover your true calling while also backing it up with practical steps to move forward and make it happen through 1-on-1 sessions, forecasts, horoscopes, a weekly podcast, and more.   Connect with Natalie and Soulshine Astrology: Website: www.soulshineastrology.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/soulshineastrology Facebook: www.facebook.com/soulshineastrology Podcast: www.soulshineastrology.com/category/podcast   Connect with Sara and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit  Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com  Nominate a Podcast Guest: www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Email: womenwhowentforit@gmail.com  Phone: 503.893.2043   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.

  In this episode, Sara talks with Colleen Kerr about her epic journey from being the "Erin Brockovich of Kentucky bluegrass stubble burning" to opening a restaurant called Sweetgrass Food Company, plus everything in between. Today, Colleen is Vice President for External Affairs and Government Relations and Chief Legislative Officer for Washington State University (WSU) and founder and co-owner of Sweetgrass Food Co. restaurant, which serves 100% Good Food in an intentionally designed space in downtown Seattle. Colleen delves into why career trajectory is illusion, how to get back up after "getting punched in the face" in one's career and life, and how success requires getting comfortable with discomfort.   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.   Sara and Colleen Discuss: How they got connected  Colleen's four degrees Colleen working for a private, non-profit law firm Using her negotiating skills to earn joint degrees Doing a human rights fellowship in Ireland Working on the Bloody Sunday Inquiry Working as an attorney for Preston Gates and Ellis in Seattle Moving with her boyfriend to New Orleans Evacuating for Katrina Moving back to Seattle and working for the Washington State Dept. of Commerce in Olympia Realizing her career trajectory was an illusion Working many positions in the Washington state government Being recruited by Washington State University (WSU) What land grant universities are Getting her a$$ kicked at WSU Starting Sweetgrass Food Co. Convincing her husband to open the restaurant with her Sourcing locally and organically, supporting underrepresented population-owned companies, etc. The restaurant's three top values Getting into teaching astrology, energy, shamanic work, etc. Recalling and harnessing that part of ourselves that used to take risks because "we didn't know better" The myth that there's a "path" to be on and how freeing it can be to let go of those illusions Realizing that stepping off the edge of the cliff is actually exhilarating Orienting toward her purpose and values Messages that she got from her family about career and work when she was growing up Facing gender bias, sexual discrimination and ageism in her work Having a plan, "getting punched in the face," and building and strength, in advance, to get back up The impact of meditation on her life Learning to show up as her full self in all areas of her life Using work as a way to express oneself in the world Her mentor, Lisa Brown Being a mentor to others as an act of service and what's that's like Coming up with questions in advance of meeting with a mentor The importance of actually following the advice you're given Colleen's recommended resources: Books Fierce Conversations Difficult Conversations Brené Brown's TED Talks The Power of Vulnerability Listening to Shame Podcasts Ben Greenfield Fitness Design Matters with Debbie Millman Reid Hoffman's Masters of Scale The Tim Ferriss Show His episode with model Karlie Kloss Her primary piece of advice for people breaking into new and different kinds of work The things that will change your brain more than anything: gratitude, challenging yourself and cultivating personal relationships ...and more! Colleen's Full Bio: Colleen Kerr is Vice President for External Affairs and Government Relations and Chief Legislative Officer for Washington State University (WSU) and founder and co-owner of Sweetgrass Food Co. in Seattle.   In her position at WSU, Colleen serves on the senior administrative team for Washington State’s land-grant university, reporting directly to the President. She currently serves as the co-chair of WSU’s Economic Development Council, where she is leading the efforts around the Seattle Initiative, dedicated to connecting WSU’s research, academic and service mission to the greater Seattle region. She also sits on the Executive Committee of the Seattle Chamber and the Executive Roundtable for the Washington Global Health Alliance.   Colleen serves as an institutional leader in defining external strategic priorities and conducting outreach with multiple stakeholders from the public and private sectors. Her office had the leadership role in securing legislation that launched the WSU Everett campus, in securing the federal designation and funding for the Center of Excellence designation of ASCENT, the launch of the Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, the second publicly funded medical school in Washington.   Colleen brings a wealth of experience to WSU and her role in advancing the public policy benefits of WSU’s extensive research and educational programs. Following a human rights fellowship with Queen’s University in Belfast, Ireland, she worked on the Bloody Sunday Inquiry for Madden and Finucane Solicitors, one of the premier legal firms in the European Union and located in Belfast. After coming back to the U.S., she was an attorney with Preston Gates and Ellis, LLP in Seattle and then was a special assistant on government accountability for the state’s Office of Economic Development in the Washington State Department of Commerce. She served as legislative director for State Senate Majority Leader Lisa Brown and deputy chief of staff for the Senate Democratic Caucus in Washington State. Previous work for the legislature includes being tribal counsel for the Washington State House of Representatives.   In 2015 with her husband and best friend, she opened Sweetgrass Food Co. restaurant, which serves 100% Good Food in an intentionally designed space in downtown Seattle. Sweetgrass focuses on a premier cafe experience, catering, and offers a "creative space" for the neighborhood. Reflecting the owners' values, it participates in the local food economy by prioritizing organic, local producers and paying a living wage. The menu highlights "real" food and defaults to plant-based, inviting guests to make additions or changes to suits their tastes or dietary needs—making nutritionally dense food delicious, accessible, and even chic. Indeed, the food genre—from Buddha bowls and soaked oats to matcha lattes and celery juice—is most aptly categorized as "hippie-chic".   Colleen holds a JD degree from the University of Washington, an AM in Public Policy from the University of Chicago and a MA Hons in Modern History and a MLitt in International Security Studies, earned with distinction, from the University of St. Andrews in Scotland.   In her spare time (?!?), Colleen is outdoors as many days as she can with Mike and Trixie and Molly, travels extensively at home and abroad, is a 20 year student of yoga, is an avid reader, baker, and a burgeoning astrologist.   Connect with Colleen and Sweetgrass Food Co.: Sweetgrass' website: www.sweetgrassfoodco.com  Sweetgrass' Instagram: www.instagram.com/sweetgrassfoodco Colleen's Instagram: www.instagram.com/colleenaelizabeth   Connect with Sara and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit  Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com  Nominate a Podcast Guest: www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Email: womenwhowentforit@gmail.com  Phone: 503.893.2043   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.  

  In this Sara Solo Show, Sara delves into the second of her Seven Cs of Successful Career Change, a system that addresses the most common areas that industry changers need to develop in order to be successful in their shift. Sara points out that the second C, or Curiosity, is all about exploring, playing around with "outrageous" ideas and having FUN!   Sara discusses: The story of her career change in Women Who Went for It Episode 001 Episodes that lay the foundation for this one: Episode 026: The Myth of Personal vs. Professional with Sara McArdle Episode 029: Commitment, Time Tracking and the Power of "No" with Sara McArdle Download Sara'sSeven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart Definitions of "curiosity" What to do when you're stumped looking for your life's work The "hustle and grind" mentality Working hard vs. hard work Figuring out how you enjoy spending your time (personally, not professionally!) Fears masked as super smart, rational statements about how the world works How we slam the door on possibilities Getting curious about our own thoughts regarding "work" Taking a mindful approach to industry change Essence vs. form when you're changing your work Treating this curiosity stage like a brainstorming session Focusing on the FUN! Noticing: what do you do when you're killing time? Jen Sincero's You Are a Badass book Journal prompts for noticing clues to your life's work The power of dabbling in topics that don't make sense nor feel perfect Taking continuing ed classes, listening to podcasts and webinars, watching videos and reading books An exercise for choosing which thing to do Creating a vision board, or a vision wall (and not limiting what you put up there!) Sara's Passions vs. Interests Worksheet ...and more! Connect with Sara and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit  Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com  Nominate a Podcast Guest: www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Email: sara.mcardle.coaching@gmail.com  Phone: 503.893.2043 Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.

  In this episode, Sara talks with Sanaa Green about her nonlinear journey from television production to environmental education. Today, Sanaa leads National Audubon Society's Wild Indigo initiative in Detroit, a community engagement program that seeks to build lasting relationships between urban communities of color and their local natural areas. Sanaa shares the beliefs she once had that temporarily held her back from going into work she enjoyed, how quiet time in nature connected her to her deeper sense of purpose and what it means to her to offer spiritually-connected, culturally-sensitive environmental programming.   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.   Sara and Sanaa Discuss: How they got connected (an article Sara found on Google!) Sanaa studying TV & radio production Getting an internship with an NBC affiliate Realizing that she wouldn't be able to make the impact she wanted or have the excitement she wanted there Working for a property management company in PR Remembering that she enjoyed advertising Considering going into entertainment law Becoming a legal assistant to try it on Realizing she didn't like it, but telling herself to "stay the course" Leaving the job to care for her ill father Following her heart into PR Doing some freelance jobs and getting enough experience to work at an ad agency in New York City Thinking she'd "really made it" but still not feeling fulfilled Her "dark night of the soul" Asking the universe to help her find her purpose Studying feng shui and connecting with the environment and elements Doing some feng shui consulting Studying reiki Trying to build a reiki practice but not getting it off the ground Spending hours at the park to feel better Taking a job as a camp counselor and kicking off her career as an environmental educator Realizing that she had always thought that work had to be hard Thinking she was "too old to start something new" and feeling self-conscious about that Noticing doors were opening, despite her not having experience, and taking that as a sign Going on a mission trip to Brazil Returning there to teach English Feeling homesick Spending a lot of quiet time in nature Connecting with her purpose and changing her mindset Moving to Detroit Teaching belly dance to help women connect with their divine feminine energy Getting a job at an an environmental justice organization and working there for 5 years Another epiphany after the death of her mother Working on a project to turn a closed recreation center into a nature center Getting the job at Audubon and launching their "Wild Indigo" program in Detroit Her passion for creating programs for people to connect with and learn about nature Audubon's focus on birds and how that focus can help us to see our connection to our own environment Wild Indigo's focus on creating culturally-sensitive opportunities for people of color who live in urban areas to connect with nearby nature What it means to offer culturally-sensitive programming What it's like for her, as an African American, to work in a predominantly white field Her spiritual approach to environmental work Her family's history of spending time outside as slaves, and as cotton pickers Taking care not to be tokenized When Sanaa second-guessed her own intuition Her mother's fears about her non-traditional career path Sanaa embracing her feminine approach to work Sanaa's book recommendations: Making a Living Without a Job by Barbara Winter The Reinvention of Work by Matthew Fox Her biggest piece of advice for career changers ...and more! Sanaa's Full Bio: It took a while, but Sanaa Green is living and working on purpose! After studying TV and radio production at Howard University, Sanaa realized she would prefer the glitzy, fast-paced advertising world to a cold, dark TV studio. So, she set out to gain experience in promotions and public relations. After landing her dream job at an advertising agency in New York, she found herself exhausted and wondering, "If this was it, why am I so unhappy?" Now, 20 years after that realization, Sanaa is working as an environmental educator and loving her work!   Connect with Sanaa: Facebook: www.facebook.com/wildindigodetroit   Connect with Sara and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit  Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com  Nominate a Podcast Guest: www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Email: sara.mcardle.coaching@gmail.com  Phone: 503.893.2043 Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.

In this episode, Sara talks with Dee Williams about her tiny house business and minimalist lifestyle. After building and moving into her own 84 square foot tiny house in 2004, Dee saved enough money and time to cut back her hours as a hazardous waste inspector at Washington State Department of Ecology and to start a business helping others to build their own tiny homes. Dee shares a couple of big "life events" that led her to minimize, talks about redefining "success" for herself, and reveals what it's like living in someone else's backyard. Today, Dee co-owns Portland Alternative Dwellings (PAD Tiny Houses), which offers ebooks, construction plans, and in-person education to teach do-it-yourselfers to create homes that support the lives they want to live.   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.   Sara and Dee Discuss: How they got connected Dee starting out in mathematics Getting into hazardous waste Working for the Department of Ecology as a Hazardous Waste Inspector Starting Portland Alternative Dwellings (PAD) Tiny Houses and teaching people how to build Moving into an 84 square foot house in 2004 Mistakes that she made building her home that she didn't want others to repeat Her "Go House Go!" Tiny House Building Guide How she got into building in the first place How she approaches teaching others to build What led her to downsize A life-changing trip to help build a school in Guatemala How moving into a tiny home saved her incredible amounts of time and money How she decided to spend that extra time Being diagnosed with congestive heart failure The sense of community—and humility!—that came with living in her friends' backyard How she defines success The messages that she got from her family about "career" and work when she was growing up Losing her sense of autonomy while living in her friends' backyard Her sense of collaboration with others and with her natural environment The story of her tiny house going viral and the impact of that on her life What it was like living with her husband in a 56 square foot home Moving into a "huge" 500 square foot house Her upcoming tiny house building workshop in New Zealand Her good fortune of keeping her health insurance while working part time at Department of Ecology Going from a $1,200 mortgage and utilities to almost no housing costs The adventure of living so close to nature Other peoples reactions' to her moving into her tiny home The sense of peace Dee felt, just "knowing" it would all work out in the end Discovering her new sense of identity The advice she'd give someone who's on the cusp of starting a side business in something she loves ...and more!  Dee's Full Bio: For the last 15 years, alongside her work with the Washington State Department of Ecology, Dee Williams has been a leader in the sustainable building community with a focus on small homes and affordable housing. She co-owns Portland Alternative Dwellings (PAD), which offers ebooks, construction plans, and in-person education to teach do-it-yourselfers to create homes that support the lives they want to live. Dee has had the privilege of working with thousands of cities, counties, individuals, and the media to further green building and community design. In 2004, Dee radically downsized into a home-made 84-square foot house. Stories of her downsize have been featured in the New York Times, TIME Magazine, NPR, and other syndicated media. Coupled with the release of her book, The Big Tiny, published by Penguin/Random House, over 30 million people have either literally or virtually visited her in her tiny house.   Connect with Dee: Website: https://padtinyhouses.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PADTinyHouses Book: https://www.amazon.com/Big-Tiny-Built-Myself-Memoir/dp/0399166173   Connect with Sara and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit  Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com  Nominate a Podcast Guest: www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Email: sara.mcardle.coaching@gmail.com  Phone: 503.893.2043 Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.

  In this Sara Solo Show, Sara delves into the first of her Seven Cs of Successful Career Change, a system that addresses the most common areas that industry changers need to develop in order to be successful in their shift. Sara points out that the first C, or Commitment, is all about shifting priorities and requires one to 1) DECIDE that the time for change is right NOW, and 2) to DECIDE to put herself at the top of her to-do list (and learn how to say "no"). Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.   Sara discusses: The story of her career change in Women Who Went for It Episode 001 Happy 1-year anniversary to Women Who Went for It! Sara Solo Show: The Myth of Personal vs. Professional Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart What "Commitment" boils down to The difference between wanting to do something and deciding to do something The (potentially cringe-worthy) idea of "success" Sara's "Do What Pleases You" video on Facebook What Sara learned from helping a friend of a fix The spectrum from people people-pleasing to blowing everybody off The idea of "yes, if" Time-tracking tools SaveMyTime App Law of Attraction Planner Slay & Shine Planner An analog system for blocking out time for oneself and managing "introvert energy" Sara's "Do What Pleases You" video on Facebook Tips & tricks for telling others "no," or "thanks, not right now" The problem with explaining our "no" One, magical phrase How our beliefs about spending time on ourselves shape our choices The idea of being "selfish" with your time Putting stock in what might be possible vs. what's known and practical ...and more! Connect with Sara and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit  Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com  Nominate a Podcast Guest: www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Email: sara.mcardle.coaching@gmail.com  Phone: 503.893.2043 Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.

  In this episode, Sara talks with Clem Lafrades about her journey from financial services to fitness. Clem shares stories of how overcoming adversity led her to creating her dream gym, how she decides which projects to invest her energy in, and how mindset makes or breaks success. Today, Clem owns Victory Get Fit Club in Federal Way, Washington; she judges, competes in, and produces drug-free bodybuilding competitions; and she helps women create organized and intentional success in life and business through her passion project, "Slay and Shine Entrepreness Success."   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.   Sara and Clem discuss: How they know one another Chelsea Behrens' Rise to the Occasion Clem's foray in the travel industry Working three jobs at the same time Her struggle with confidence and self-image Getting into financial services with the intention of taking care of her family Opening up the first outdoor bootcamp for women in the Puget Sound region Founding Victory Get Fit Club in Federal Way, Washington Judging drug-free bodybuilding shows Being a competitive bodybuilder, herself Running Girlfriend's Success Circle on the East Side of Seattle Sara's interview with Erin Alexander about going from car sales to marketing, branding & social media The Power of SHE How Clem wound up in the emergency room 2x from over-working and people-pleasing The appeal of being an entrepreneur The importance of knowing your ideal client Ignoring red flags and paying the price A challenge early in her career that led her to re-brand and rebuild How our beliefs dictate our actions Clem's Slay and Shine Workbook & Planner The time she let everything except business fall through the cracks What it takes to be successful How our ideas about something prevent us from even trying them out The appeal of the bodybuilding federation that she's a part of The importance of having a personal mission statement and a set of core values Being clear with her boundaries Shonda Rhimes' book The Year of Yes How Clem follows her own, inner compass Getting swayed by others' "great ideas" Being teased and bullied when she was growing up Telling herself that she's "not a runner" Sara also thinking, "I'm not a runner" Clem deciding to run a marathon to rewire her brain Being inspired by others' success Cultivating the willingness to fail The messages Clem got about what girls are "supposed to be" when she was growing up The power of the labels we give ourselves Going against the "norms" of the neighborhoods and culture she grew up in How reading personal growth books has given Clem a glimpse into others' successful lives Clem's networking group in Bellevue called Girlfriend's Success Circle Creating community vs. competing How Clem's pursuits are all tied together through her mission statement How motivation is a muscle and created by small actions The advice Clem would give herself at the beginning of her journey ...and more! Clem's full bio: Clem Lafrades has been in business for 20 years, the first five in financial services, in hopes to contribute to her young family’s household income while raising her babies. Overcoming her own, deeply-rooted issues with weight, body image, and confidence, her path led to her becoming a certified personal trainer & certified life coach. She then opened the first women’s only outdoor fitness bootcamps in Washington State's Puget Sound region in 2005. These bootcamps successfully grew, and spread to 5 cities. Through twists and turns, a new logo, a new company name, and a commercial lease, she now owns a women’s mind & physique transformation boutique called Victory Get Fit Club in Federal Way, Washington. She also produces an all athletes tested, drug-free bodybuilding show, serves as a certified bodybuilding judge around the country, produces women’s networking events with Girlfriends Success Circle & the Power of She, and helps women in business create organized and intentional success in life and business through her passion project, "Slay and Shine Entrepreness Success."   Connect with Clem: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/clemlafrades Website: https://slayandshine.com Victory Get Fit Club: https://victorygetfitclub.com    Connect with Sara and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit  Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com  Nominate a Podcast Guest: www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Email: sara.mcardle.coaching@gmail.com  Phone: 503.893.2043 Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.

  In this episode, Sara talks with Aneelah Afzali about her journey from attorney to community activist, interfaith leader, and justice advocate. Aneelah shares what it was like to leave her legal career and very comfortable salary to pursue something unknown and different, and how her colleagues and loved ones responded to her decision. She describes how she knows, with absolute certainty, that she's doing exactly what she's meant to be doing at this moment in time. She also shares some of misconceptions and truths about women in Islam, and changes she's had to make to help build bridges across difference. Today, Aneelah leads American Muslim Empowerment Network at Muslim Association of Puget Sound, or MAPS AMEN.   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.   Sara and Aneelah discuss: How they know one another Kids4Peace Seattle Aneelah being the 1st in her family to go to college What drew her to law Adversity she had to overcome Applying to 18 different law schools Going into corporate law Making partner at a law firm Serving as general counsel Finding that something was missing from her life Going through a spiritual transformation Growing up as a "Ramadan Muslim" Reading the Quran, cover to cover, for the first time Deciding to leave law to pursue service and knowledge Intensely studying Islam Seeing that her money was running out Applying for jobs back in law Her mosque's leadership offering to create a position for her Founding American Muslim Empowerment Network (AMEN) Seeing anti-Muslim sentiment locally and nationwide The need for bridge-building, understanding, and unity What Ramadan is What the Quran is The vision of AMEN The impact of this work on her personal life The impact of this work on the community People questioning her when she left law and how scary that was Having faith in the journey and in God to "take the leap" How Aneelah knows she's doing what she was born to do Doing a "Faith Over Fear" Road Show in conservative, rural areas with Pastor Terry Kyllo The importance of confidence in oneself Aneelah's need to get out of a toxic environment Knowing that she could fall back on law if she needed to People's fears for her personal safety in the work she does Seeing her own privilege within this work Her family's emphasis on a strong work ethic Having to be more public Figuring out how to connect with people who think differently Organizing an "Ask a Muslim" booth at a huge Muslim hate rally The stereotypes and misinformation in our culture about women's rights in Islam Aneelah doing a thorough investigation of religions and choosing Islam for herself The origins and purpose of some Muslim wearing wearing a head covering The reasons Aneelah started wearing a head covering How God in Islam is the same as God in Christianity Aneelah's advice for those who are considering "going for it" The unique time we live in A book recommendation: The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho How people can learn about their Muslim neighbors ...and more! Aneelah's full bio: Aneelah Afzali is Executive Director of the American Muslim Empowerment Network (AMEN) at the Muslim Association of Puget Sound (MAPS). She also serves on the board of directors for Faith Action Network and on the steering committee for Washington Immigrant Solidarity Network. Aneelah graduated from the University of Oregon Honors College and Harvard Law School. She then made partner at a law firm and led as General Counsel of a local healthcare IT company. The Washington State Bar Association honored Aneelah with its Excellence in Diversity award, and Washington Law and Politics recognized her as a Rising Star, multiple years. Five years ago at the time of this recording, Aneelah left her legal career to pursue service and knowledge, two things that her faith emphasizes. Since then, she has served as a community activist, interfaith leader, and justice advocate. She also was named one of 2017's Most Influential People by "Seattle Magazine," she earned the 2018 Humanitarian Leadership Award by the International Rescue Committee, she was selected as “American Muslim of the Year” by the Council on American Islamic Relations (CAIR), the largest Muslim civil rights organization, and she was identified as one of the 26 Rising Brand Stars in Seattle by "Adweek" in 2018.   Connect with Aneelah and Muslim Association of Puget Sound (MAPS): Facebook: www.facebook.com/AmericanMuslimEmpowermentNetwork Website: www.mapsredmond.org Faith Over Fear Road Show: www.neighborsinfaith.org/events Email: aneelah.afzali@gmail.com   More Information on Muslims and Islam from Aneelah: State Department's publication on American Muslims: https://photos.state.gov/libraries/amgov/30145/publications-english/American_Muslims.pdf The Pluralism Project at Harvard University page on Islam: http://pluralism.org/religions/islam/ Islam Explained (and MANY more topics/resources): www.whyislam.org/brochures/islam-explained/ American Muslims Video Playlist: www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL75NGzbbbROO8_dYaLIhqkJSmK0q-9IXN   Connect with Sara and Women Who Went for It: Facebook: www.facebook.com/womenwhowentforit  Website: www.womenwhowentforit.com  Nominate a Podcast Guest: www.saramcardle.com/podcast-guest  Email: sara.mcardle.coaching@gmail.com  Phone: 503.893.2043 Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.

In this Sara Solo Show, Sara lays the foundation for her Seven Cs of Successful Career Change, a system that addresses the most common areas that industry changers need develop in to be successful in their shift. Sara points out that 1) professional satisfaction is an inside job and 2) career satisfaction is about life satisfaction.   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.   Sara discusses: The story of her career change in Women Who Went for It Episode 001 The perks of interviewing others Why she's doing something different this episode The feeling of being stuck on the edge of career change Career change approaches that her clients take (and she took!) that don't work The first premise Sara approaches career change with: professional satisfaction is an inside job. The myth of "professional me" vs. "personal life me" Expressing only parts of yourself at work to fit in Showing up "out of character" at work to fulfill a specific role Career change as a personal growth project Instead of looking outside, at first, look WITHIN Following your own advice Sara's second premise for career change: career satisfaction is about life satisfaction. How Sara's not your stereotypical "career-oriented" woman How we spend 60% of our waking lives working The long-term ineffectiveness of trying to find happiness through hobbies Noticing that what you want from your job is also what you want from your life The imperative that you be self-centered in your career change process Instead of asking: "What will the world allow me to do?" ask: "What would I LOVE to do?" Getting started from right where you are, in this moment ...and more! Connect with Sara McArdle Coaching: Website: http://www.saramcardle.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sara.mcardle.coaching Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saramcardlecoaching   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.

  In this episode, Sara talks with Adora Drake about her journey from working in corporate marketing to founding a beauty business. Adora shares how beauty products have helped her feel more empowered in her life, the ins and outs of working with her closest friends, and how trial-and-error in her mother's kitchen led to the creation of the much-loved products that her company sells today. Adora is founder of HighSpirits Essentials, a beauty brand specializing in natural, cruelty-free skincare and cosmetic solutions that empower women of every shade to look and feel their best.   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.   Sara and Adora discuss: How they got connected Adora starting out in college as a journalism major Switching to marketing Working in corporate marketing Realizing she wasn't happy Noticing her passion for beauty How she uses marketing in her current business Working two jobs at the same time How she knows she's doing the "right thing" now Researching before jumping into a new industry Asking her friends for feedback What beauty means to Adora How taking care of oneself helps build confidence The lack of cosmetics options out there for women of color Her choice to work with organic, non-toxic ingredients Adora experimenting in her mom's kitchen Working with local farmers Learning about chemistry to create body products Her typical day at work Hiring employees What it's like to work with her best friends Being the "oddball" entrepreneur in her family The importance of self-trust Believing in the value of what you're selling Being the first in her family to go to college The benefits of networking Getting energy from positive interactions with others Collaborating with fellow entrepreneurs Balancing the skeptics with those who are supporting and encouraging you How she prepared, financially Her experience after not getting her "dream job" in marketing The power of "self-help" books Taking the time to figure out what makes you happy How being yourself sets you apart from other brands Choosing to focus on empowering women vs. pointing out their flaws Her biggest tip for taking good care of one's skin on a daily basis The advice she'd give her teenage self, who struggled with confidence The advice she has for budding entrepreneurs ...and more! Adora's full bio: Adora Drake, founder of HighSpirits Essentials, traded her full-time corporate marketing career to pursue her dream of creating cruelty-free skincare and cosmetic solutions that empower women of every shade to look and feel their best. Adora had previously worked in several industries with many different teams before realizing that sitting in a cubicle was not the life she wanted. So, after four years, she decided to take the leap and create her own company and brand. In the beginning, she worked full time while building her business on the side, and eventually left to pursue her dream, full time. Adora has had to learn so much about the beauty industry, but it has been well worth it. She's been in business for about a year in a half at the time of this recording, and HighSpirits Essentials is growing!   Connect with HighSpirits Essentials: Website: https://highspirits-essentials.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/highspirits.essentials/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HighSEssentials/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/highspiritsessentials0036/   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.

In this episode, Sara talks with Carol Gavhane about her journey from advertising, through years of dealing with secondary infertility, to starting a handcrafted jewelry company with her husband. Carol shares how she got through dark times in her life thanks to a trusted fertility bracelet she found online, how her journey with infertility gave her a "start-before-you're-ready" attitude when it came to building a business, and how she and her husband navigate working together every day. Today, Carol is co-founder of Asha Blooms, a handcrafted, purposeful jewelry company dedicated to inspiring and uplifting people.   Want to make your own career change? Download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.   Sara and Carol discuss: Getting connected through previous podcast guests, Michelle Wong and Judy Lee Carol majoring in journalism but realizing it wasn't for her Deciding on the field of advertising Working as a media assistant at an ad agency Wanting more fulfillment and purpose Working in fundraising and development at a nonprofit Getting pregnant with her daughter and having an easy pregnancy Taking 5 years off to be with her daughter How our identities are tied to what we do for a living Doing everything under the sun to get pregnant again Why advertising was a great early career field for Carol Feeling burned out and wanting something that fed her soul Experiencing 5 pregnancy losses How her infertility journey led to founding her business Buying herself a fertility bracelet as a daily reminder to continue on Starting her business: Asha Blooms, a purposeful, hand-crafted jewelry company  The meaning behind each piece she produces Her husband leaving his corporate job to start the business How she decides which gemstones to include in her jewelry Her son, Henry, arriving 7 weeks early at 3 lbs., 14 oz. Henry spending almost 1 month in the NICU and the impact on their lives Realizing that life is short - why not go after what you want? Knowing that they could always go back to what they'd done before if it didn't work out The right time to start their business The difficulties of being an entrepreneur Asha Blooms feeding her soul and giving her purpose What it's like for Carol to work with her husband The importance of communication How they organize and distribute the work Embracing baby steps Realizing that even changing jobs within the same industry takes time to get up to speeds Scrum meetings Carol learning how to make jewelry Honoring the voice that kept telling her: "Do the jewelry, do the jewelry, do the jewelry" Interviewing others in the area in the jewelry business to learn more The intention behind all of their pieces of jewelry Going live with their products before they were "ready" Skepticism from their parents, who are immigrants to the U.S. The importance of surrounding oneself with the right people A local networking group that Carol loves: Business Among Moms The perks of working for herself The advice that she'd give to herself at the beginning of her entrepreneurship journey The advice she has for others The meaning behind the name "Asha Blooms" ...and more! Carol's full bio: Carol Gavhane is co-founder of Asha Blooms, a handcrafted, purposeful jewelry company dedicated to inspiring and uplifting people. Born out of her walk with secondary infertility, she and her husband created this business when it dawned on them that words and intentions really do matter. Each piece of jewelry is tied to a specific intention, and it’s their vision that others see themselves for who they already are—whole, loved, complete, courageous, and renewed. Everything about their first child was fairly typical, but trying to add to the family afterward was incredibly difficult. During those years, they tried everything under the sun to get or sustain pregnancy—clean eating, support groups, fertility yoga, acupuncture, meditation, negotiations with God, many visits to the fertility clinic, and so on. These services absolutely helped, as they provided comfort or bits of positivity, but there were many dark days thrown into the mix. Who would have thought that a fertility bracelet found online would help as much as it did? It soon became a beacon of hope for Carol, a daily, wearable reminder to continue on—which she did, for nearly three years. Looking back, Carol credits science, hope, and intention with the creation of baby Henry. Prior to becoming a parent, Carol worked in the advertising and nonprofit industries for 13 years. She lives just outside of Seattle with her family.   Connect with Asha Blooms: Website: https://www.ashablooms.com  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashablooms  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashabloomsjewelry  Work with Sara: Want to make your own career change? Take the first step and download Sara's Seven Cs of Successful Career Change Chart.

In this episode, Sara talks with Sadie Rusby about her choice to cycle the world before going to university and then working short term, contract positions in the environmental field, all while keeping her eye on her big dream: working in Antarctica. Sadie shares how she learned to trust her gut and trust the universe, how an unexpected job as a "warehouse worker" was the key to her success, and how she gets to use so many of her diverse skills and interests in her current role. She paints a picture of what it's like to live and work on a continent so few people know very much about, describing its climate, topography, wildlife, and darkness and light, as well. Today, Sadie works in McMurdo Station in Antarctica. She has held different roles since her first deployment to the ice more than 3 years ago, including supply/warehousing supervisor and IT instructor. Now, she works for the station’s waste management company, Best Recycling.   Sara and Sadie discuss: How they know one another The challenges of arranging the interview Sadie signing up, in 1995, for an around the world bike trip celebrating the millennium Cycling through 42 countries in one year, on all continents except Antarctica Meeting a scientist from the South Pole while on her trip Deciding she wanted to work in Antarctica and applying for jobs there A friend suggesting she should work in the Marshall Islands first Getting a job there running a marina Going to university and studying environmental science Becoming a licensed massage therapist Only being able to find short-term contract jobs in environmental work Getting laid off Applying for her three required jobs per week, per unemployment requirements Applying for a job titled "warehouse worker" at University of Washington Getting a rare call back and being invited to interview Not being excited about working in a warehouse Realizing the job was about process improvement and getting excited Working there for a year Completing her contract position and deciding to try applying in Antarctica again Getting hired to work for supply and warehousing in Antarctica Getting promoted to supervisor and in charge of flight operations The wide variety of skills it takes to work in Antarctica Transitioning to a new software program with relative ease Getting hired as IT Trainer in Antarctica Getting hired for waste management in Antarctica Being in charge of a big, public auction for equipment from Antarctica An epic bike trip she and her brothers took in the western US during high school What she learned about herself and life while biking around the world More about the Marshall Islands and Kwajalein The importance of applying for jobs that you're curious about—even you're skeptical Finally riding her bike in Antarctica (!) The actual South Pole Countries that have a presence in Antarctica (*Sadie said 22, but let me know later that there are actually 30 nations and a total of 70 stations) Environmental rules in Antarctica (i.e. no peeing in the snow!) Social life and culture in Antarctica McMurdo Alternative Art Gallery The manic energy of "summer" in Antarctica (24 hours of light) A month of purple sunrise / sunset skies Weather conditions 1, 2 and 3 (blowing snow, extreme cold, etc.) and how they impact life What it's like to live in 24 hours of darkness The mountainous landscape in Antarctica Wildlife in Antarctica (including penguins!) Being nervous about what to do next for work, after Antarctica Realizing that she enjoys short-term work Sadie's practice of trusting the universe Her favorite personal growth resources, including Brené Brown's TED talk on vulnerability Sadie's #1 piece of advice for people going for their big dreams ...and more! Sadie's full bio: Sadie Rusby’s career and life path has been non-traditional, but goal-oriented from the start. Not knowing what to do study in college, she decided to travel instead. At seventeen, she signed up for a year-long bicycle trip around the world and worked odd jobs during the five years leading up to the trip. Afterward, while looking to fulfill a life goal of working in Antarctica—the last continent she needed to bicycle—she found her way to the Marshall Islands, where she supervised a marina. She started college at 25, and and by 30, she was a licensed massage therapist with her own massage business. Since earning her BA in Environmental Studies from the University of Washington, she has worked several jobs in the environmental field, including environmental education, environmental assessments, and wind energy. In 2014, Sadie's dream of working in Antarctica became a reality. She currently works in McMurdo Station in Antarctica. She has held different roles since her first deployment to the ice more than 3 years ago, including supply/warehousing supervisor and IT instructor. Now, she works for the station’s waste management company, Best Recycling.

In this episode, Sara talks with Mary Anne Em Radmacher about her rise from working whatever minimum wage jobs she could get to being a successful and well-known artist and writer. Mary Anne shares about how hard it was to pursue art after receiving a painful message from a former teacher, how she "takes the leap" when she's standing on the precipice of a big change, and her views on the belief that artists need to heavily self-promote to be successful. Today, Mary Anne is included in the Oxford Dictionary of American Quotations and is best known for a portion of a poem, "Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, 'I will try again tomorrow.'"   Sara and Mary Anne discuss: Getting connected through Sharon Roemmel from Episode 18 Mary Anne's lifelong love for mail and greeting cards In childhood, redesigning greeting cards with her own message Not fitting in in school Getting painful feedback from a teacher and feeling heartbroken Pouring herself into writing Longing to be an artist Parenting herself Marrying a good friend and learning a lot Supporting her husband as he went to school Taking care of her father during his health decline Taking whatever minimum wage jobs she could get Friends gifting her with her very first art show How her original plan vs. reality Selling all of her art in her first show Sending off greeting card samples to sales reps and getting orders very quickly Not knowing how to be in business for herself, but looking for her transferable skills Growing to nearly a $1M business Going against others' advice Hiring based on talent and personality The life-changing message she received from a publisher Releasing her first book: Lean Forward Into Your Life Taking a three-year writing sabbatical Licensing her lifetime body of work to Dr. Deanna Davis of Applied Insight Becoming a coach Second-guessing herself The problem with trying to wait until you know everything to start something Letting go of the idea that she was never going to go back to working for someone else Realizing that everything she's ever experienced has led her to this moment Making choices without regret How she gets in touch with her intuition Mary Anne's mentors The importance of applying for jobs you're passionate about, even when you don't feel qualified Mary Anne's advice for artists who are convinced they cannot make a living creating art Elizabeth Gilbert's "Your Elusive Creative Genius" TED Talk The pushback Mary Anne received along the way The advice she'd give herself if she had to do it all over again Where to connect with her: Purchasing her works: Applied Insight Working with her as a coach: Mirasee Famous quotes from Mary Anne ...and more! Mary Anne's full bio: Mary Anne Em Radmacher inspires herself and others to remember and do what matters through her books, inspired products, keynote speeches, courses and coaching. She’s been contributing beautiful products through the gift industry for thirty years. Her work is featured in broadcast and print media throughout the world, in ceremonies and in speeches. Her works can be found in board rooms, bedrooms and school rooms. She is included in the Oxford Dictionary of American Quotations and is perhaps best known for a portion of a poem, "Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, 'I will try again tomorrow.'"   Connect with Mary Anne: Website: https://www.maryanneradmacher.net  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maryanneradmacher  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MaryAnneRadmacher 

In this episode, Sara talks with Michelle Knoll about her twisting, turning journey from international marketer for the Walt Disney Company to corporate pilot. Michelle opens up about what it's like to be a female in such a male-dominated industry (only 6% of commercial pilots are female), gives tons of tips for women getting into aviation and speaks passionately about how it's never too late to make a career change. Formerly an airline pilot for US Airways, Michelle built her flight time as a skydive jump pilot, a 1st Lieutenant for the U.S. Air Force Auxiliary / Civil Air Patrol, a medevac pilot on Life Flights and a private pilot for a small charter company. Today, Michelle is a Gulfstream 650 and 550 International Captain for a U.S. Fortune 50 corporation, and the first female Captain in her aviation department’s history.    Sara and Michelle discuss: Sara finding Michelle via an article on Forbes.com: "Day In The Life: What It's Like To Be A Female Pilot At 40,000 Feet" Michelle graduating early from high school Moving to California at 18 Working odd jobs to pay for college Taking prerequisites for veterinary school Feeling discouraged and leaving the sciences Looking into other options and feeling at a loss for what to do Taking time off to travel and live abroad Moving back to the States Getting an international marketing job with the Walt Disney Company in Hong Kong Getting laid off and turning down the opportunity to work for Disney in Australia Becoming half owner of an import / export business in the chocolate industry Finding herself on an "all stress, all chocolate" diet Selling the business after the market took a turn Moving to Cape Town, South Africa Flipping houses there Receiving an offer on the dream house she'd created that she couldn't refuse Taking it as a sign to move back to the States Moving to Miami Beach and continuing real estate development there Getting out of that business just before the market crashed Taking it as another sign Visiting family in New Orleans at the time Hurricane Katrina hit Feeling compelled to help Inquiring with nonprofits doing relief on the ground and hearing they were at capacity Collaborating with individuals doing relief work in Houston Doing animal rescue runs into New Orleans Moving to New Orleans Feeling like she couldn't go back to what she'd done before, but not knowing what to do next Learning how to fly while she figured out what she was going to do with her life The pressure that Michelle put on herself to figure out her passion The influence of others' opinions on her career decisions Dismissing "fanciful" career ideas she had along the way Noticing how much she'd already accomplished The illusion of "security" in a job The fallacy that it's "too late" to make a career change Her supportive family How she got into the Civil Air Patrol Flying medical evacuation flights Doing National Weather Service buoy drops Doing counter-drug flights Her one mosquito control flight Flying a Southern Baptist church leadership from location to location Flying skydive flights A mentor that made a real impact on her Learning how to navigate by the stars Going to an aviation job fair and treating it like an informational interview Getting invited to interview and deciding - why not? Telling herself she wasn't going to get the jobs, anyway Getting a job offer from US Airways Again, thinking - why not? - and taking it Questioning herself in training Meeting a fellow pilot who proved to be a key contact Being invited for an informal meet-and-greet for the "holy grail" of aviation jobs Not knowing how it went, and months going by Writing occasional emails to follow-up Suddenly, after 5 months, hearing, "When can you start?" Michelle's current lifestyle How she takes care of herself, with changing time zones and sitting so much The importance of staying physically active and listening to one's body How she cares for her personal relationships when she's gone so much What it's like to be a woman in such a male-dominated industry The advice Michelle has for women interested in aviation (now is a GREAT time to get into it!) Resources: Women in Aviation The Ninety-Nines United States Air Force Auxiliary Civil Air Patrol Ladies in Flight Training (LIFT) Female Aviators Sticking Together (FAST) Piedmont Airlines' Cadet Program JetBlue Pilot Gateway Programs Discovery Flights ...and more! Michelle's full bio: Michelle Knoll is a Gulfstream 650 and 550 International Captain for a U.S. Fortune 50 corporation, and the first female Captain in her aviation department’s history. She has flown to nearly 50 countries on 6 continents, and yet never loses her enthusiasm for the travel, adventure, and spectacular views from 40,000 feet. Formerly an airline pilot for US Airways, she built her flight time as a skydive jump pilot, a 1st Lieutenant for the U.S. Air Force Auxiliary / Civil Air Patrol, a medevac pilot on Life Flights and a private pilot for a small charter company. Before discovering her love of aviation, Michelle studied International Marketing at UCLA and worked in Hong Kong and Australia for The Walt Disney Company. She became a business owner in the chocolate industry and developed hundreds of new products, which were then produced and distributed throughout the Asia-Pacific region. She has been a corporate executive, an entrepreneur, a property developer, a mentor and an active volunteer. She is a passionate advocate for women in aviation, disaster relief, animal rescue, and military and first responders.

In this episode, Sara talks with Jennifer Hofmann about her journey from home office organizer (and much more!) to activist and writer. Jen talks about how everything she ever did in her wildly varied career led up to this moment. She also gives some great financial advice for budding entrepreneurs, as well as tips for connecting with loved ones across political party lines. Since November of 2016, Jen has been writing the "Americans of Conscience Action Checklist" to an engaged list of over 70,000 subscribers. With diplomacy, sincerity, and heart, she helps fellow conflict-averse introverts, everyday Americans, and even moderate Republicans become inspired to engage in their democracy.   Sara and Jennifer discuss: How they got connected through Sharon Roemmel from Episode 018 Jen studying French and secondary ed at university Working at the YMCA for years Moving to Oregon and working for The Humane Society How she used her background in education in these positions Starting a business in real estate home staging Working part time side jobs to make ends meet Serving as a business adviser at her local small business center Starting a business as a website copy writer How everything she's ever done ties into what she's doing now The benefits of having multiple income streams How she started writing the Americans of Conscience Checklist Going viral, from 30 initial subscribers to 74,000 Her love for sending out positive messages that we can all agree on Receiving enough donations via her Patreon page to make her living Sara's brand new Patreon page A personal retreat Jen took when she needed to decide what was next in her career The concept of "less of this / more of that" Sara's and Jen's favorite self-assessment tests Gallup Top 5 CliftonStrengths Test 16 Personalities (Myers-Briggs Personality types) The Enneagram RHETI Test What Jen loves most about what she does now Jen's biggest fear in her business Finding common ground through political differences Seeking understanding before being understood Not tolerating verbal abuse Marshall Rosenberg's Nonviolent Communication How to empathize with others without reinforcing oppression John Gottman's "Four Horsemen" and "Soft Startup" The encouragement Jen received when she first became self-employed that kept her moving forward Jen's writing mentors: Elizabeth Gilbert Glennon Melton Doyle Jen's income streams: Writing website copy and managing social media accounts Writing the Americans of Conscience Checklist Jen's biggest regret in starting her first business Her advice for new businesses Taking what she'd learned, and pivoting again Jen's favorite self-care practices Noticing when you're not at your emotional best Tips for remaining optimistic and positive, regardless of political climate What Jen would do differently if she started over again Tips for talking about politics with people you love that have different perspectives than you do Great de-polarizing organization: Better Angels Finding opportunities to practice leadership ...and more! Jennifer's full bio: Before the 2016 presidential election, Jennifer Hofmann was a mild-mannered travel blogger, writer, and avowed politophobe. Then, everything changed. In response to the election, Jen put her taxpayer-funded education to good use and began researching how ordinary Americans could respond in the new political landscape. Since November of 2016, Jen has been writing the "Americans of Conscience Action Checklist" to an engaged list of over 70,000 subscribers. With diplomacy, sincerity, and heart, she helps fellow conflict-averse introverts, everyday Americans, and even moderate Republicans become inspired to engage in their democracy. See what she’s up to at americansofconscience.com.   Connect with Jennifer: Web: http://americansofconscience.com  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AoCChecklist 

  In this episode, Sara talks with Lucile Whitman about her journey from teaching Latin in prep school to purchasing an orchard and starting a plant nursery. Lucile taught Latin for 11 years before moving to Salem, Oregon. When she wasn't able to find a job teaching Latin or Greek in Salem, she bought and revived a broken-down filbert, or hazelnut tree, orchard in 1980. Whitman Farms began as a one-woman show and mostly for fun. However, Lucile got sidetracked and became enamored with unusual ornamental trees and started planting any weird and wonderful woody plants she came across. By the end of the decade, the nursery was no longer just a hobby, no longer one-woman and Lucile had become known as a producer of hard-to-find trees and shrubs.   Sara and Lucile discuss: How they got connected through Sharon Roemmel from Episode 018 Lucile teaching Latin and Greek Moving to Salem, Oregon and not being able to find a job teaching either language Lucile growing up on a farm Her limited botanical knowledge Her husband suggesting they look for a home in the country Lucile finding an old filbert (hazelnut) orchard The farm next door having the kind of equipment she needed to clear the land Lucile not wanting to grow filberts because they need to be sprayed The farm next door becoming a nursery Lucile trying (unsuccessfully) to sell the neighbor's nursery stock in return for help harvesting her filberts Connecting with Salem's forester, who introduced her to all kinds of new and interesting trees Gathering unusual seeds and starting to plant them on her property Growing into a nursery that was known for its uncommon nursery stock Realizing how hard it is to sell relatively unknown plants Financial challenges in the nursery business Why leaving teaching was right for her What's been especially wonderful about her farming life Her mom introducing her to yoga in 1975 A synchronicity that changed her life How she learned to care for so many different kinds of plants Trying her hand at organic farming Choosing plants that are easy to grow in her area How easy it is for her to learn new things and talk to people Her honest approach to sales The supportive nature between nurseries in Oregon Her family's response to her starting her own business Her idyllic childhood on her grandparents' hay farm The one piece of advice Lucile would offer to someone who wants to start a nursery ...and more! Lucile's full bio: Lucile Whitman grew up in the Atlanta area. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Bryn Mawr College in Pennsylvania and went on to Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland, where she earned her Ph.D. in Latin and Greek. She taught Latin for 11 years before following her then-husband to practice nephrology in Salem, Oregon. When she wasn't able to find a job teaching Latin or Greek in Salem, she bought and revived a broken-down filbert, or hazelnut tree, orchard in 1980. Whitman Farms began as a one-woman show and mostly for fun. However, Lucile got sidetracked and became enamored with unusual ornamental trees and started planting any weird and wonderful woody plants she came across. By the end of the decade, the nursery was no longer just a hobby, no longer one-woman and Lucile had become known as a producer of hard-to-find trees and shrubs.   Connect with Lucile: Web: http://www.whitmanfarms.com  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Whitman-Farms-253458547577/ 

  In this episode, Sara talks with Sharon Roemmel, BSW, ACC, E-RYT, about her journey from social work to life purpose & holistic wellness coach. Sharon talks about several "pivot points" in her ever-evolving career path, and touches on what it's like to be nearing traditional retirement age and still be excited about her work. Sharon is a certified coach, a registered yoga teacher, a certified aromatherapist and a licensed massage therapist. Through her business, Practically Enlightened You, Sharon works with individuals, teaches classes, leads retreats and presents at events.   Sara and Sharon discuss: How they got connected Coach Training World in Portland Sharon studying social work Her early exposure to the book "What Color is Your Parachute?" Working at a resident Girl Scout camp Having a powerful nighttime dream that gave her direction Being hired by the Girl Scouts and staying on for 7 years Getting tired of uncertain funding for her position Getting a "real" job for the state with Vocational Rehab Feeling like a round peg in a square hole Not knowing how to leave a job with benefits Seeing a compelling flyer for a gathering of healers in Oregon Meeting a massage therapist who filled her in about the field Mapping out her future as a "holistic health practitioner" using Barbara Sher's "Wishcraft" book Looking for holistic health programs and finding that none existed in the 80s Learning one healing modality at a time: massage, yoga instruction, aromatherapy, coaching, etc. Not feeling ready for retirement, despite her contemporaries preparing for it The similarities between camps and retreats The importance of following those "wild and crazy urges" Yoga helping to heal Sharon's back A delightfully sneaky way her yoga instructor got her to teach a class Wanting to take yoga teacher training but not be seen as a yoga teacher Being invited to teach at the massage school Noticing that her massage students were going back to old work that they hated Telling people, "Somebody needs to help these people"... then realizing that was her job Mentoring massage students first, then others Noticing common themes in her life and work: purpose and self-care Wanting more skills to help people achieve lasting results Researching, finding and getting certified at Coach Training World in Portland Her fears of not making it, not getting a job, not liking massage, etc. Working at the YMCA Taking manageable risks that have worked out every time Making a financial plan for her career transition Working at Girl Scouts in Oregon during massage school Loosening her grip on her vision of the future and then watching it all unfold Saving money like crazy in the first year and burning out from working so much Subsequent self-care practices keeping her in business for herself for 27+ years Sharon's favorite self-care practices Living your purpose as a form of self-care The people who've supported Sharon along the way Speaking "as if" with an accountability buddy buddy Mastermind groups Getting initial pushback from her parents about her career Learning to share new ideas with different people at different times How Sharon started leading retreats What her retreats look like Sharon's own mental blocks Her upcoming 5 Day Challenge Her upcoming "So, You Want to Be a Yoga Teacher?" workbook Sharon's one piece of advice for people who want to change careers ...and more! Sharon's full bio: Sharon Roemmel, BSW, ACC, E-RYT, helps women who are excited about their purpose become equally passionate about taking care of their number one asset—themselves. As a self-care expert, she draws on over 30 years of working in the wellness and empowerment field. Sharon’s experience includes being a certified coach, a registered yoga teacher, a certified aromatherapist and a licensed massage therapist. In addition to working with individuals, teaching classes and leading retreats, Sharon has presented at events and conferences. She has also been interviewed as an expert in national and local media, including "Natural Health Magazine" and the "Mindfulness Mode" podcast.   Connect with Sharon: Web: www.practicallyenlightenedyou.com  Facebook: www.facebook.com/PracticallyEnlightenedYou 

  In this episode, Sara talks with Tanorria Askew about her journey from being a 15-year credit union professional to becoming a personal chef. Thanks to insistence from her friends that she audition for "MasterChef" with Gordon Ramsay, Tanorria took 4th place on season 7 in 2016—an experience that changed her life. Upon returning from the show, she'd mentally moved on from the credit union and requests for dinner parties featuring her famous shrimp and grits began to pile up. That's when she finally owned her title as "personal chef" and fully stepped into her business, Tanorria's Table. Now, in addition to doing dinner parties, she cooks for paleo clients, makes freezer meals and seasonal goodies, and even creates and serves meals at homeless camps in her hometown of Indianapolis, Indiana.   Sara and Tanorria discuss: Tanorria's work history Tanorria's interview on the Women's Work podcast Studying elementary education at university (among other things) Working at Teachers Credit Union during college, starting out as a summer job Feeling like she was doing her "dream job" Getting promoted, again and again Staying with the credit union for 15 years Realizing she didn't want to work there for the rest of her life Growing up with a strong sense of community and hospitality Friends telling her she should cook for a living Her thoughts getting in the way Her friends pushing her Seeing she had no more room for growth at the credit union Her dad gifting her money to get Tanorria's Table off the ground Starting out as a part-time side hustle Watching her friends successfully follow their unconventional passions and dreams Her loved ones pushing her to audition for "MasterChef" Feeling confident at the audition Knowing deep inside her that this was going to change her life Making it onto the show and flying to California Cooking her grandmother's shrimp and grits Gordon Ramsay saying it was the best shrimp and grits in the "MasterChef" Kitchen Being "in it to win it" The moment she realized she was put on this earth to feed people Struggling to go back to work at the credit union after her life-changing experience Knowing in her heart she was done there Leaving her job right before her season of "MasterChef" premiered Her dreams becoming a reality The importance of surrounding yourself with the right people Her original transition plan into working full time for Tanorria's Table How reality compared to her vision Finally owning the fact that she was a "personal chef" The intensity of self-employment (but how much she loves it!) Helping people create delicious memories Cooking for paleo clients, creating freezer meals and making seasonal pies Serving on the board for Dotted Line Divas Leading the hospitality team at her church Cooking for, serving and connecting with residents of homeless camps in Indianapolis through volunteering with Food 4 Souls Leading "Unity Tables" to connect women across differences, including race Sara's experience with "Dialogue Dinners" hosted by Kids4Peace Seattle The reality of Tanorria's ongoing fears (e.g. self-employment, client satisfaction, fame) Focusing on her faith, her tribe and her family The importance of hope People questioning Tanorria's decision to become a full-time, self-employed personal chef Choosing to follow her own dreams and timing Tanorria having a segment on the local, Indianapolis news ever other week Working at Camp MasterChef How doing her passion for work has impacted her experience of cooking The one piece of advice she'd had given herself at the beginning of her career change journey The difference between "catering" and being a personal chef ...and more!   Tanorria's full bio: Tanorria Askew of Tanorria’s Table is a passionate home cook turned chef. Her culinary credentials are simple. She comes from the “Culinary Institute of Her Parents & Grandparents." Tanorria spent 15 years at Teachers Credit Union before leaving to follow her culinary dreams. During that time, she worked her way through the ranks from Sales Representative, Member Service Representative, Assistant Manager and Training and Organizational Development Specialist. Tanorria was also the champion and practitioner for Teachers Credit Union’s Diversity and Inclusion Initiative. A 2016 contestant on "MasterChef" hosted by Gordon Ramsay, Tanorria walked away as the 4th best home cook in America. Auditioning with 21,000 other hopefuls, Tanorria won over producers, judges and America with her southern culinary roots and sassy personality. Gordon Ramsay donned her shrimp and grits as the best shrimp and grits he’s had in the "MasterChef" kitchen! Above all, Tanorria encourages everyone to love deeply, laugh often, and eat really well.   Connect with Tanorria: Web: www.tanorriastable.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/tanorriastable  Instagram: www.instagram.com/tanorriastable  Twitter: www.twitter.com/tanorriastable 

  In this episode, Sara talks with Judy Lee about her journey from research and program evaluation at a university to transformative women's portrait photography. After agonizing struggles with fertility, pregnancy loss and parenting a grief-stricken adopted son, Judy felt heartbroken and numb. Then, she encountered a woman's portrait photographer, and that experience changed the trajectory of her life. Now, Judy helps women see beyond the critical voices in their heads to their true essence and beauty—both inside and out. Judy opened a portrait studio in the Ballard neighborhood of Seattle, Washington in late March of 2018.   Sara and Judy discuss: How they know each other Sara's interview with Chelsea Behrens in Episode 002 Chelsea's Rise to the Occasion Facebook Group Sara's interview with Michelle Wong in Episode 014 WomanSpeak Judy studying race & class inequality and statistics in graduate school Planning to become a university professor Leaving school Working at a university on teacher and student education in mathematics and science for under-performing schools Getting too comfortable in her role Struggling with infertility and pregnancy loss Adopting and becoming a stay-at-home mom Getting too comfortable again Adopting her second son and the profound grief he experienced, post-adoption Feeling broken Discovering her eye for photography Starting a family photography business because people asked her to Suffering from impostor syndrome A compelling question from a good friend Meeting a women's portrait photographer, Sue Bryce, at a convention Seeing Sue's photographs and recognizing immediately that's what she was meant to do Something awakening in her Setting up a home studio and taking classes Women's responses to her photographs of them Capturing a woman's true essence Being terrified to talk about her business Her calling being stronger than her fear Separating the essential self from the stories we tell ourselves about who we are Our emotional armor, fear and scarcity thinking Judy giving her clients permission to be vulnerable through her own vulnerability How she recognized her true "calling" vs. something else she was temporarily interested in Going with her gut and following her intuition Embracing the unknown The belief that everyone has a purpose Seeing one's own value and worth The idea of traditional "success" Judy's advice for others who think it's too late in life to make a big change The danger of rigidly defining who we we are and what we're "supposed" to do The illusive feeling of being "ready" for change Opening her studio Continuing to push herself Messages she got about career from her very traditional Korean family How her old career prepared her for her new one Recources: Brené Brown Eckhart Tolle Jen Sincero's "You Are a Badass at Making Money" book Oprah's Super Soul Conversations podcast Gretchen Rubin's Happier podcast Judy's advice for those worried about finances during career transition Her unique process of transformative women's portrait photography: Each woman choosing to be seen Receiving mentoring with Judy Pre-photo shoot interview on video Simple makeup, clothing and backdrops The photo shoot (where the magic happens!) "Reveal Day" Post-photo shoot interview and reflections on video Archival photos that will last 200 years Even the most "traditionally beautiful" women disliking photos of themselves The power of vulnerability Judy's regular "Coffee with Intention" events at her studio   Judy's full bio: Judy Lee is a transformative portrait photographer who shows women their true selves so they can live with more authenticity, intention and purpose. She's spent most of her life struggling with self-worth and the feeling of "not enough." She always held on to the stories and beliefs she told herself about being shy, not smart enough and having no voice. While her career trajectory started in research and program evaluation at the university level, motherhood led her to discover she had an eye for photography, which evolved into a family photography business. While she enjoyed it, she struggled with impostor syndrome and never took her business seriously. Then, she adopted her second son as a toddler, and he cried with grief for over two years. This left her feeling completely lost and broken, feeling numb to herself and the world. Everything changed when she discovered women's portraiture. She realized it was her calling, and it stirred something in her. Her calling became stronger than her fear and it sent her on a journey to reconnect with herself. She took off all her emotional armor, shed her old beliefs and found her voice. She was finally able to see herself for the woman she truly is. Her personal journey helped her realize her purpose was to empower other women to do the same. She wants women to see themselves—their true selves—and realize the woman they aspire to be is already in them, just as she did for herself. She had to first learn to value herself and know her inherent self-worth, and that had to come from within. Judy opened a portrait studio in the Ballard neighborhood of Seattle, Washington in late March of 2018.   Connect with Judy: Website: www.judyleephotography.com  Facebook: www.facebook.com/judyleephotography  Instagram: www.instagram.com/judyleephotography 

  In this episode, Sara talks with Jake Keiser about leaving her lifestyle as an award-winning, six-figure earning, Hamptons-vacationing publicist in Tampa, Florida to become a farmer in rural Mississippi. After experiencing the pain of miscarriages and a divorce, Jake found herself in the depths of depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts, and dreamed of escaping to the country and raising chickens. If she wasn't going to be the wife and mother she'd imagined, Jake wondered what she WOULD be. Now, she finds a sense of true joy caring for, and educating the public on, the roughly one hundred animals that call her Daffodil Hill nonprofit farm home. Despite living a quiet, new life outside of publicity, Jake's "Gucci to Goats" blog was discovered by "Cosmopolitan" and "People," bringing her back into the public eye.   Sara and Jake discuss: What drew Sara to Jake's story Jake's studies in political science and international relations Going into marketing for nonprofits Jake's drive for increasing freedom Becoming self-employed Being plagued by anxiety, and pushing it down Dreaming of the peace of a farm life, despite no real experience with it Her initial impression of chickens Her new farm life coming together more quickly than she'd imagined Secretly leaving the city Not understanding what was happening to her, how to relate to others or how talk about what she was going through Feeling depressed and suicidal Re-imagining her life, if she wasn't going to be the wife and mother she'd planned Good friends and family making bets on how long she'd last at the farm Worrying that she had to choose between different parts of herself Her fantasy farm vs. reality Death on the farm Experiencing true joy for the first time Rupert, the "therapy turkey" Turning her farm into a nonprofit A powerful dream that compelled her to start blogging again Getting contacted about doing a documentary with Danny Glover "Cosmopolitan" finding her blog and coming out to her farm to create a video Realizing how much others benefited from hearing her story Doing an article for "People" about her miscarriages Assisting animal births The hardest part of farm life The reception she got from her new farm neighbors The financial impact of her leaving her six figure salary for farming Jake's female role models in life: Oprah and Corazon Aquino Her biggest piece of advice for those looking to leave the city and start a farm The documentary she's going to be in: The American Dream Her advice for those living with anxiety and depression ...and more! Jake's full bio: Jake Keiser started her own marketing and public relations firm in January of 2006. She maintained a number of high-end clientele and excelled professionally, even winning 40 under 40 for the Gulf Coast of Florida. Then, she realized that, despite her professional success, she was unfulfilled. In 2012, she decided to challenge her depression and make a big life change. She secretly exited her city life to start a farm, where she could learn self-reliance and redefine her life. She started a blog called “Gucci to Goats,” where she connects with others looking for, or going through, big life changes. Despite living a quiet, new life outside of publicity, her blog was discovered by "Cosmopolitan" and "People," bringing her back into the public eye.   Connect with Jake: Websites: www.guccitogoats.com  Facebook Pages: www.facebook.com/GuccitoGoats  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gucci_to_goats